About Atriplex confertifolia (Torr. & Frém.) S.Watson
Common Name and Height
Atriplex confertifolia, commonly called shadscale, grows between 1 and 3 feet (0.30 to 0.91 meters) tall.
Ecological Role as Browse
Its fruits and leaves are an important source of winter browse for both domestic livestock and native herbivores.
Morphological Comparison to Related Species
When compared to fourwing saltbush (Atriplex canescens), shadscale has shorter and wider leaves, and its fruit does not have four wings – though it may develop two wings arranged in a V shape.
Flowering Period
This species flowers from March through June.
Osmotic Pressure Measurement
Maximum osmotic pressure reported for Atriplex confertifolia is approximately 202.5 atmospheres.
Distribution in the Great Basin
Shadscale is a common, often dominant, shrub found in the lowest, driest regions of the Great Basin.
Soil and Salinity Preferences
It prefers sandy, well-drained soils and can tolerate moderately saline conditions.
Habitat Types
It grows in habitats including alkaline desert valleys, hillsides, and bluffs.
