Silverscale saltbush facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Silverscale saltbush |
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| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Atriplex
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| Species: |
argentea
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Silverscale saltbush (scientific name: Atriplex argentea) is a type of plant called a saltbush. People also call it silver orache. This plant naturally grows in western North America, from southern Canada all the way down to northern Mexico. You can often find it in many different places, especially in soils that have a lot of salt.
Contents
What Silverscale Saltbush Looks Like
Atriplex argentea is an annual herb. This means it is a plant that lives for only one growing season. It has stems that branch out. These stems can spread low across the ground or stand upright, growing up to about 80 centimeters (about 31 inches) tall.
Leaves and Stems
The leaves of the silverscale saltbush are shaped like triangles or are somewhat oval. They are usually between 1 and 4 centimeters (about 0.4 to 1.6 inches) long. Both the stems and the leaves of this plant are covered in tiny, gray scales. This gives the plant a silvery look, which is why it's called "silverscale."
Flowers and Reproduction
The flowers of the silverscale saltbush grow in rough clusters. These clusters are called inflorescences. The plant has both male and female flowers, but they grow in separate clusters on the same plant. The flowers are very tiny.
Traditional Uses of Silverscale Saltbush
The Zuni people are a Native American tribe. They have used the silverscale saltbush for different purposes in their traditional medicine.
Using the Root for Skin and Stomach Issues
- For sores and rashes on the skin, the Zuni people would chew the root of the plant. They would then apply this chewed root as a soft, moist paste, called a poultice, to the affected area.
- If someone had a stomachache, they would drink a special liquid made from the root. This liquid is called an infusion, which is made by soaking the root in hot water.
See also
In Spanish: Atriplex argentea para niños
