Atriplex hortensis
Plant Details
Plant Properties
Layer:
Herb layer
Format:
Smal
Height:
1.80 m
Width:
0.30 m
Growth Rate:
Fast
Leaf:
-
Growth conditions
USDA Hardiness:
5-9
Soil Moisture:
Moist
Moist
Soil:
Sand (light) Loam (medium)
Sand (light) Loam (medium)
pH:
Acid Neutral Basic
Acid Neutral Basic
Light:
Sun
Sun
Usage properties
Edible part:
Leaves, Seed
Leaves, Seed
Edibility:
Medicinal:
Features:
Biomass, Companion, Dye
Biomass, Companion, Dye
Description
Leaves can be eaten raw or cooked and have a neutral flavor. They are traditionally mixed with sorrel leaves to adjust the acidity. Some reports suggest that the flavor is stronger than that of spinach. The seeds can be cooked, ground into flour, and used in soups or mixed with flour for bread. They are a good source of vitamin A and also contain saponins. The small size of the seeds makes them difficult to harvest and use. It is important to note that toxicity may occur; see the above comments regarding this.
Harvest Data
Start Harvest:
01/07
End of Harvest:
30/09
Guilds
Guild Information
Click on a plant in the diagram for more information.
Guild Details
| Guild | Description |
|---|---|
|
Amelanchier alnifolia Serviceberry |
Attracts pollinators and beneficial insects which can help with Atriplex's growth. |
|
Corylus avellana Hazel |
Provides shade and helps to improve soil quality with its nitrogen-fixing abilities. |
|
Oenothera biennis Evening Primrose |
Its flowers attract nocturnal pollinators which can benefit Atriplex during its flowering period. |
|
Clematis vitalba Traveller's Joy, Evergreen clematis |
Acts as a trap crop for pests, protecting Atriplex from being targeted. |
|
Tilia americana Basswood |
Provides habitat for beneficial insects and shade, which can reduce stress on Atriplex. |
|
Urtica dioica Stinging nettel, California nettel |
Offers a habitat for beneficial insects and enhances soil fertility through its growth habits. |