Desert Holly

Atriplex hymenelytra

Ornamental silver foliage and salt tolerant. Desert Holly removes excess salts into bladders in its leaves that act as salt sinks, protecting the plant cells. As the old leaves are shed or eaten, the salt is taken away from the plant. Desert Holly is edible (tasting much like spinach), and a good companion for others in the Goosefoot family.

Water: Needs good drainage or desert conditions, and as little water as possible

Hardiness: Frost Hardy

Habit: 2 to 5' tall, gray-white sub-shrub

Light: Full Sun

Soil: Cannot tolerate wet soil or ground freeze

Origin: Utah to Southern California

Additional Characteristics: California Native

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Desert Holly