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Griffiths' saltbush

Scientific Name: Atriplex griffithsii

Family: Chenopodiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Shrub

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Griffith's Saltbush (Atriplex griffithsii)

Griffith's Saltbush, also known as Griffiths' Saltbush or Willcox Playa Saltbush, is a perennial shrub belonging to the genus Atriplex.

Considerations for Pets

  • The name "saltbush" suggests the plants may retain salt, which could be a consideration for pets sensitive to high sodium intake.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Atriplex griffithsii Standl.
  • Common Names: Griffith's Saltbush, Griffiths' Saltbush, Willcox Playa Saltbush
  • Synonym: Atriplex torreyi var. griffithsii (Standl.) G.D. Brown
  • Taxonomic Rank: Subspecies (threatened subspecies)
  • Family: Chenopodiaceae (mentioned in relation to other Atriplex species)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Griffith's Saltbush is found in southern regions of New Mexico and Arizona in the United States, as well as Mexico.
  • Specifically mentioned locations in relation to this plant or facilities using its name include Lake Grace, Western Australia.

Ecological Role

  • Saltbush species can utilize summer rainfall, unlike winter-active annuals, giving them a potentially vital role in certain environments.

Morphological Characteristics & Growth Habits

  • It is a shrub and described as one of the largest saltbushes found in Arizona.
  • The plant is perennial, meaning it lives for more than two years.

Cultivation

  • Griffith's saltbush can be grown at home or in a warmed greenhouse during spring and moved outside when minimum temperatures are suitable.
  • It requires "Sole pieno" (full sun).

Related Species

  • Other Atriplex species mentioned include:
    • Slenderflower Saltbush (Atriplex graciliflora)
    • Mediterranean Saltbush (Atriplex halimus)
    • F-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens)
    • Atriplex torreyi
    • Maritime Saltbush (Atriplex acadiensis)
    • Bell Saltbush (Atriplex eardleyae)
    • Bonneville saltbush (Atriplex bonnevillensis)
  • Hedge Saltbush (Rhagodia spinescens) is mentioned as a related plant thriving in a garden setting.
  • Old Man Saltbush Shrubland is mentioned in relation to soil types.

Further Information

  • The New Mexico Rare Plant Technical Council (NMRPTC) provides an online fact sheet with species information and distribution details.
  • Dave's Garden is referenced as a community where tips and ideas for gardens, seeds, and plants are shared.