Salt Tree, Common salttree
Halimodendron halodendron

Family: Fabaceae or Leguminosae

What it is like

Halimodendron halodendron is a deciduous Shrub growing to 2 m (6ft 7in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 2. It is in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. It can fix Nitrogen. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils and can grow in very alkaline and saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Height (m): 2

Where it is found

Salt steppes and saline flood plains.

Europe to W. Asia.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 0

Other

Rating: 0

Planted as a wind shelter in Canada.

Hedge: Plants that can be grown as hedges.

Hedge: Hedge

Nitrogen Fixer: Plants that fix nitrogen in the soil

Scented Plants: Plants noted for their scent

How it is grown

Succeeds in most fertile soils but they must be perfectly drained and the plant requires a very sunny position. Very intolerant of winter wet, especially when grown on its own roots. It can be grafted onto Caragana or Laburnum species. Plants are well adapted to maritime situations, growing well on alkaline, sandy and saline soils. Another report says that the plant is unable to thrive in any soil that contains lime. The flowers have a delicate sweet almond perfume. This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby.

Propagating it: Pre-soak the seed for 12 hours in warm water and then sow in spring in a greenhouse. Use a very well drained compost and be very careful not to overwater, the seedlings are very susceptible to a wet soil. When they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in the greenhouse for at least their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Cuttings of half-ripe wood, July/August in a frame. Very difficult. Layering

Best place to grow: Hedge; Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness: 0-0

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium

Shade: No shade

Moisture: Dry, moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

H. argenteum.