Nuttall's Saltbush (Atriplex nuttallii)

Family: Chenopodiaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Atriplex nuttallii is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.9 m (3ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots

Harvest Seasons: Spring, Early Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour to other cooked foods. — Leaves and stems - cooked.; It is usually cooked with wheat.; The leaves and stems can be used to add a salty flavour to other cooked foods.; Used in piñole or ground into a meal and used as a thickener in making bread or mixed with flour in making bread.

Habitat & North American Range

Strongly saline and dry soils. (Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9)