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Mueller's saltbush

Scientific Name: Atriplex muelleri

Family: Chenopodiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Subshrub, Forb/herb

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Mueller's Saltbush (Atriplex muelleri)

Mueller's Saltbush, scientifically known as Atriplex muelleri, is a fascinating plant with several common names and interesting characteristics. This plant belongs to the saltbush family (Chenopodiaceae), which contains other salt-tolerant plants. Often found in saline environments, Mueller's Saltbush presents unique ecological and evolutionary adaptations.

Common Names

  • Mueller's Saltbush
  • Annual Saltbush
  • Green Saltbush
  • Lagoon Saltbush
  • Queensland Saltbush
  • Cape Saltbush (English)
  • Karoobrakbossie (Afrikaans)

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Atriplex muelleri Benth.
  • Family: Chenopodiaceae (now considered part of the Amaranthaceae family).
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: Atriplex, Annual Saltbush, Muellers Saltbush, Mueller's Saltbush

Distribution and Habitat

Mueller's Saltbush is native to Western Australia and is also found in Queensland. It thrives in environments where late winter rains occur. It is often associated with lagoon environments and saline soils. Some records indicate observations of this plant in various locations.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Habit: Described as a subshrub forb/herb, with both prostrate and erect forms.
  • Duration: Perennial.
  • Seed Leaves: Linear, curved, and bluish-green. Seedlings also exhibit a blue-green color.

Ecological Role

  • Often grows in saline soils.
  • Can be confused with Pearl Bluebush from a distance.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Serves as a food source for the Chequered Blue butterfly (Theclinesthes serpentata serpentata).