Australian Saltbush. Australian saltbush (Atriplex semibaccata)

Family: Amaranthaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Atriplex semibaccata is an evergreen Shrub growing to 0.5 m (1ft 8in) by 1.5 m (5ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. The flowers are pollinated by Wind. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay and nutritionally poor soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Fruit, Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Edible Portion: Fruit, Leaves. Fruit - raw. 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. — Edible Portion: Fruit, Leaves.; The fruit are eaten as a snack.; They are added to salads.; The young leaves are eaten raw or steamed.

Habitat & North American Range

Naturalized in southwest N. America, growing in saline waste places, along roads and sidewalks, in marshes, in various plant communities; at elevations from 10 - 1,000 metres. It grows best in coastal, light, well-drained soils. It suits an open sunny position. It is resistant to drought and frost. (Zone 8)