Parry's saltbush facts for kids

Atriplex parryi is a type of plant often called Parry's saltbush. It's a special kind of saltbush that grows naturally in the dry areas and high plains of eastern California and western Nevada.

This plant is a halophyte, which means it loves to grow in salty and alkaline soils. You can often find it in places like salt flats, growing alongside other plants that also like salty ground, such as Nitrophila.

What is Parry's Saltbush?

A Small, Spiny Shrub

Parry's saltbush is a small, tough shrub. It usually grows to about 50 centimeters (about 20 inches) tall. Its stems are covered in tiny scales and have sharp points, making the plant look a bit spiky. These stems often tangle together, giving the plant a round shape.

Leaves and Flowers

The plant is covered with many small, gray-green leaves. Each leaf is oval-shaped and can be up to 2 centimeters (less than an inch) long.

Parry's saltbush is a dioecious plant. This means that individual plants are either male or female. Male plants produce only male flowers, and female plants produce only female flowers. Both types of flowers grow in long groups, mixed in with the leaves.

When Does it Bloom?

This species blooms during the warmer months, from May to August.