Saltbush

Usually available: All year

Life cycle: Perennial
Height: 2 - 3m
Position: Sun / part shade
Soil preference: Well drained

This is how we pack and send your Herb Plants to all states except TAS & WA

You will receive
- 1 Saltbush Herb Plant in a 50 X 75mm tube - General growing instructions

All of our Herb Plants are grown organically with certified organic potting mixes and fertilizers

Botanical Name: Atriplex nummularia

Commonly known as Oldman saltbush this variety belongs to the genus Atriplex which comprises of 300-400 species commonly referred to as saltbush. The name saltbush is very appropriate as they retain salt in their leaves.

Oldman saltbush grows up to 3m high and between 2 and 4m wide. The grey-green leaves are alternate, have a silvery coating, they are simple, irregular in shape and range in size from 1-5cm depending on growing conditions.

Growing Conditions

Saltbush will tolerate saline and alkaline soils. They will grow in sand, clay or loamy soil so long as the drainage is good. Saltbush will grow in full sun through to part shade. Regular watering is required when first planted, but once established saltbush will tolerate dry conditions.

Culinary Uses

The seeds from the plant are a traditional food source for many Australian Aboriginal communities, both consuming them on their own and as a component of meals. Grubs found in the roots were eaten either raw or roasted by Noongar people.

The leaves are also edible, salty in flavour and rich in protein, Old Man Saltbush leaves may be treated like a leafy vegetable, enjoyed blanched, sautéed, wrapped around meat or fish, used in salads, or for stuffing poultry. Alternatively, they may be dried and used as a herb sprinkle.

Medicinal Uses

leaves and roots were mashed and boiled with water, to bathe skin sores wounds and burns, while early settlers reportedly drank the same decoction to treat scurvy.

Other uses

Attracts bees and other insects. Fire retardant plant. Suitable fodder for sheep and cattle.

All information provided on this website is for informational purposes only. Please seek professional advice before commencing any treatment.