No images found for this plant ID: 4940.

Ensure images are uploaded to the Media Library and tagged with "4940" in the "plant_image_tag" taxonomy.

Safe for Children?

Safe for Dogs?

Safe for Cats?

Safe for Reptiles?

bractscale

Scientific Name: Atriplex serenana var. serenana

Family: Chenopodiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Forb/herb

Duration: Annual

Other Names:

       

Atriplex serenana: Bractscale or Stinking Orach

Atriplex serenana, commonly known as bractscale or stinking orach, is a fascinating plant with unique characteristics. This page explores its botanical features, distribution, and other interesting aspects.

Considerations for Pets

  • The text mentions that no member of the genus Atriplex is known to be hazardous.

Scientific Classification

  • Scientific Name: Atriplex serenana A. Nelson ex Abrams
  • Common Names: Bractscale, stinking orach, bracteate orach, Davidson's bractscale
  • Family: Chenopodiaceae (now considered part of Amaranthaceae)
  • Genus: Atriplex
  • Synonym: A. bracteosa S. Wats.

Distribution and Habitat

  • Atriplex serenana is native to California and Baja California.
  • It is found in saline soils in the southeastern U.S.

Morphological Characteristics

  • Atriplex serenana is an annual, erect, succulent herb.
  • It is a taprooted plant that typically features many stems at the base and branches throughout.
  • The plant has numerous grayish-green scales, which are derived from modified leaves (bract scales).

Ecological Role

  • Atriplex serenana overlaps in range with Bakersfield smallscale.

Bract Scale Information

  • The "bract scale" is a modified leaf.
  • The seed scales (or ovuliferous scales) are subtended by each bract scale, derived from a highly modified branchlet.

Further Resources

  • Information can be found in the Encyclopedia of Life.
  • Discover Life also hosts a page on Atriplex serenana.