FOUR-WING SALTBUSH
Four-wing saltbush (Atriplex
canescens) is widespread and often dominant on salty
or alkaline soils of western North America, from Mexico
through to Canada. The evergreen leaves are grey-coloured
due to the deposits of salt excreted from tiny hairs onto
the leaf surface - an adaptation to prevent the build-up
of salt in the plant tissues. This salt deposit helps to
reflect light, shielding the leaves from excessive
exposure to sun. There are male and female plants. The
females produce fruits with four characteristic wings,
aiding wind-dispersal of the seeds. This plant is a
highly nutritious browse plant for grazing animals,
including cattle in years when drought restricts the
growth of grasses.
Close-up of the narrow grey-green leaves and fruits with
four paper-like wings
Four-wing saltbush is a perennial plant,
growing to a height of 1 metre or more and retaining its
leaves throughout the year. It exhibits C4
photosynthesis - an adaptation that enables it to
photosynthesise on even the hottest days.
Typical appearance of four-wing saltbush
Flat, arid landscape dominated by four-wing saltbush
Go to
Plant gallery?
Go to
Saltbushes?
|