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Texas Saltbush (Atriplex texana)

Texas saltbush, scientifically known as Atriplex texana, is a native plant with several interesting characteristics and uses.

Common Names

• Texas Saltbush
• Salt Bush
• Chamiso (referring to F-wing Saltbush)

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Atriplex texana S. Watson
• Family: Not explicitly mentioned in text, but implied to be in the Atriplex genus
• Synonyms/Related Species:
  • Atriplex canescens (F-wing Saltbush) - although considered distinct, it is frequently mentioned in relation to Atriplex texana and shares the common name "Saltbush".
  • Armed Saltbush
  • Australian Saltbush

Considerations for Pets

• The text mentions "spiny-fruited saltbush," which suggests that some varieties of saltbush may have spines or potentially sharp features.

Distribution and Habitat

• Primarily found in Texas.
• Also found in other regions including the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Northern Africa.
• Atriplex canescens (F-wing saltbush) has a wider range, extending from western United States and southwestern Canada to North Dakota and Texas, and can grow at elevations from below sea level to over 8,500 feet.
• Grows on saline soils.
• Saltbush is also found growing throughout Florida and along the coast to Texas and Oklahoma.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• F-wing saltbush (Atriplex canescens) is described as a deep-rooted, native, evergreen shrub, reaching heights of 3 to 6 feet.
• Australian Saltbush is an introduced perennial with many branches that generally lay down and are woody at the base.
• The leaves of F-wing saltbush are alternating.
• Saltbush is often described as a woody shrub or small tree.

Ecological Role

• The name "saltbush" comes from the plant's ability to retain salt in its leaves, allowing it to grow in saline areas.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Mentioned in the text is the "F-wing Saltbush-Creosotebush Shrub" environment.
• Feeding F-wing saltbush or alfalfa did not affect shinoak intake.

Quirky Facts

• The common name "F-wing saltbush" derives from the seed, which has four paperlike wings that project from the seed at right angles.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden: A community sharing gardening tips and ideas.
• Discover Life: Provides information on the biology, natural history, ecology, identification, and distribution of Atriplex texana.
• Native Texas Plants: Landscaping Region by Region (Bibref 318)