Atriplex gardneri, commonly known as Gardner’s saltbush, is a deciduous shrub or subshrub native to the arid and semi-arid regions of western North America. It is well-adapted to saline and alkaline soils, often found in salt flats, desert shrublands, and sagebrush communities. This plant exhibits a variable growth habit, ranging from 4 inches to 3 feet in height, with stems that may be prostrate or upright. The leaves of Gardner’s saltbush are also variable in shape and size, typically gray-green, covered with a fine layer of salt-encrusted hairs that help the plant conserve water.

Gardner’s saltbush is valued for its drought tolerance and ability to thrive in poor soils, making it a useful species for restoration projects and erosion control. It is also fire-resistant, contributing to its resilience in harsh environments. The plant’s tolerance to saline conditions makes it an important food source for wildlife, such as antelope, rabbits, and pronghorn, and it can be used in wildlife habitat plantings. In cultivation, it requires minimal maintenance, thriving in full sun and well-drained soils. While not known for showy flowers, its foliage provides textural interest in xeriscaping and native plant gardens.CC BY-SA 4.0