Scotland orache, Maritime saltbush, Frankton's saltbush, Northeastern saltbush
Atriplex glabriuscula
Family: Chenopodiaceae
What it is like
Atriplex glabriuscula is a ANNUAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft). It is in flower from 00 to July, and the seeds ripen from August to September. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) 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): 0.3
Where it is found
Sandy or gravelly shores, at or somewhat above the high tide mark.
Coastal areas of N. W. Europe, including Britain.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 2
Young leaves - cooked. Seed - used in piñole or ground into a meal and used as a thickener in making bread or mixed with flour in making bread.
Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.
Medicine
Rating: 0
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Succeeds in full sun in any well-drained but not too fertile soil. Most species in this genus tolerate saline and very alkaline soils. This species is either very closely related to, or no more than part of, A. hastata.
Propagating it: Seed - sow April/May in situ. Germination is usually rapid.
Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;
Habit: Annual
Hardiness: 0-0
Growth:
Soil: Light (sandy), medium
Shade: No shade
Moisture: Dry, moist
Things to keep in mind
No member of this genus contains any toxins, all have more or less edible leaves. However, if grown with artificial fertilizers, they may concentrate harmful amounts of nitrates in their leaves.