Atriplex canescens
Grey Sage Brush, Fourwing saltbush
Explore the size, hardiness, soil, light, edible uses and harvest period of Atriplex canescens.
General Information
Plant Properties
Growth conditions
Well-drained, Moist
Sand (light) Loam (medium)
Acidic Neutral Alkaline
Full sun
Usage properties
Leaves, Sap, verf, Seed
Dye, Fire retardant, Hedge, Carbon farming
Description
Leaves - can be consumed both cooked and raw. They have a very pleasant flavor with a salty touch. The leaves can be used throughout the year, but the harvest in winter should be light, as the plant does not grow much during that time of year. Seeds - to be cooked. When ground into powder, they can be mixed with grains and used in making cakes, and so on, or as Piñole. The seeds are small and difficult to handle. The ground seeds can also be mixed with water and consumed as a refreshing drink. The burnt green herb produces ash that is rich in minerals and is used by the Hopi Indians to enhance the blue color of grain products. The ash can serve as bicarbonate.