Spreading Orach, Spear saltbush
Atriplex patula
Family: Chenopodiaceae
What it is like
Atriplex patula is a ANNUAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. 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, insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay 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 moist soil.
Height (m): 0.8
Where it is found
Waste and arable land near the coast, it is usually found on clays and heavy ground.
Most of Europe, including Britain, south and east to N. Africa and W. Asia.
Conservation Status:
Countries/locations it is found in
How it is used
Food
Rating: 3
Young leaves - raw or cooked as a spinach substitute. A fairly bland flavour, a few leaves of stronger-flavoured plants can be added to enhance the taste. Seed - ground and mixed with cornmeal or used to thicken soups etc. Small and very fiddly to harvest and use.
Seed: includes nuts, cereals, peas and beans.
Medicine
Rating: 1
The seeds, harvested when just ripe, are said to be as efficacious as ipecacuanha as a laxative.
Laxative: Stimulates bowel movements in a fairly gentle manner.
Other
Rating:
How it is grown
Succeeds in full sun in any well-drained but not too fertile soil. Prefers a rich soil. Tolerates saline and very alkaline soils.
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: Moist
Things to keep in mind
Most reports say that no member of this genus contains any toxins and that all have more or less edible leaves. However, one report says that if very large quantities are eaten they can cause photosensitivity. If plants are grown with artificial fertilizers they may concentrate harmful amounts of nitrates in their leaves.