Nitrophila occidentalis, commonly known as boraxweed or western niterwort, is a rhizomatous perennial herb that is native to the saline and alkaline wetlands of the western United States and northern Mexico, including areas like the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. It thrives in unique ecological niches such as salt flats, salt pans, and other high-salinity environments. This plant typically produces decumbent or erect stems up to 12 inches tall and is characterized by fleshy, linear to oblong green leaves that can grow up to 1 inch long. The inconspicuous flowers, which lack true petals, have five pointed sepals that are initially white or pink, fading to white as they age, and are found in the leaf axils, appearing alone or in clusters of up to three, accompanied by small bracts.

Boraxweed is valued for its ability to survive in extreme saline conditions, which makes it an interesting subject for xeriscaping and restoration projects in its native range. It is also used in research on salt tolerance in plants. In cultivation, it requires conditions that mimic its native habitat, including full sun exposure, moist alkaline soils, and good drainage to prevent waterlogging. While not commonly found in conventional gardens, it serves as a specialized plant for habitat restoration and educational gardens. It has no notable diseases or pests due to its harsh native environment, but it is not suitable for areas with heavy foot traffic due to its delicate structure.CC BY-SA 4.0