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Description
Atriplex Canescens Var. Laciniata, also known as the Fourwing Saltbush or Shadscale, is a shrub that belongs to the Amaranthaceae family. It is a native plant in North America and can be found in rocky areas, deserts, and arid regions where it can thrive in hot and dry conditions. This plant is known for its silvery-grey leaves and its unique four-winged fruit. It has been used for medicinal and culinary purposes by the Native Americans for centuries.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Atriplex |
| Species | Atriplex Canescens |
Appearance
The Fourwing Saltbush is a deciduous shrub that can grow up to 3 meters in height. It has silvery-grey leaves that are oval-shaped, and it produces small greenish-yellow flowers that bloom in the late summer. The fruit is a four-winged capsule that splits open to reveal small seeds. This shrub is drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for xeriscaping.
Care Guide
Water: Atriplex Canescens Var. Laciniata requires occasional watering during the growing season, but it can tolerate drought conditions. Overwatering can cause root rot, so it is essential to allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
Fertilization: This shrub does not require fertilization. However, a slow-release fertilizer can be applied in the spring to encourage growth.
Soil: Atriplex Canescens Var. Laciniata prefers well-draining soil that is slightly alkaline. It can tolerate poor soil conditions and is salt-tolerant.
Sunlight: This plant prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate partial shade.
Hardiness Zones: Atriplex Canescens Var. Laciniata can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and is hardy in zones 4-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Fourwing Saltbush is relatively pest and disease-resistant. However, some common pests that can affect this plant include spider mites, scale insects, and aphids. These pests can be controlled by using insecticidal soap or by pruning affected branches.
Habitat
Atriplex Canescens Var. Laciniata is native to North America and can be found in rocky areas, deserts, and arid regions. It is an excellent plant for xeriscaping and can thrive in hot and dry conditions. It is also salt-tolerant, making it an ideal choice for coastal areas.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Atriplex Canescens Var. Laciniata edible?
A: Yes, the leaves, stems, and seeds of this plant are edible and have been used for centuries by Native Americans for medicinal and culinary purposes.
Q: Can Atriplex Canescens Var. Laciniata be grown in containers?
A: Yes, this shrub can be grown in containers as long as it is provided with well-draining soil and adequate sun exposure.
Q: How fast does Atriplex Canescens Var. Laciniata grow?
A: This shrub grows slowly, and it can take several years to reach its full height.
Q: Is Atriplex Canescens Var. Laciniata deer-resistant?
A: Yes, this plant is deer-resistant.
Related Plants
- Atriplex canescens
- Atriplex canescens var. canescens
- Atriplex canescens var. linearis
- Atriplex canescens var. macilenta
References
- Bonham, C. D. (1999). Atriplex canescens (Pursh) Nutt. Journal of range management, 52(6), 532-542.
- Nabhan, G. P., & Felger, R. S. (1985). Four-wing saltbush: a wild food of the Papago and Pima Indians of the Sonoran Desert. Economic Botany, 39(3), 352-366.
- Welsh, S. L., Atwood, N. D., Higgins, L. C., & Goodrich, S. (1993). A Utah flora (2nd ed.). Brigham Young Univ.
