Australian saltbush, Creeping saltbush
Atriplex semibaccata

Family: Amaranthaceae

What it is like

A shrub that keeps growing from year to year. It grows 50 cm high and spreads 1 m wide. The stem lies along the ground and the branches are low and spreading. The leaves are sword shaped and silvery green. They are 2 cm long and have teeth around the edge. The flowers are very small. The fruit are flattened red berries.

They have also been put in the family Chenopodiaceae.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It grows best in coastal, light, well-drained soils. It suits an open sunny position. It is resistant to drought and frost. It can grow on salty soils.

Countries/locations it is found in

Argentina, Australia (country/location of origin), Chile, Hawaii, Mexico, North America, Pacific, South America, St Helena, Tasmania, USA

How it is used for food

The fruit are eaten as a snack. They are added to salads. The young leaves are eaten raw or steamed. They are often boiled to remove excess salt.

It is cultivated.

Edible parts

Fruit, leaves

How it is grown

It can be grown by seed or cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Barrinan, Cachiyuyo, Morenita rastrera

Synonyms

Atriplex denticulata Moq.; Atriplex flagellaris Wooton & Standl.; and others