Botanical Name
Atriplex nummularia
Common Name
Old Man Saltbush
Description
Old Man Saltbush is an exceptionally hardy native shrub renowned for its outstanding drought tolerance and valuable bush tucker qualities. This robust plant features distinctive silvery-grey rounded leaves that are edible and traditionally harvested, creating attractive textural contrast in challenging garden conditions. The young leaves have a mild, slightly salty flavor and can be eaten raw in salads or cooked like spinach. Extremely adaptable, it thrives in poor soils, coastal environments, and areas with minimal water availability where other plants struggle. Perfect for bush tucker gardens, water-wise landscapes, and sustainable food production, this tough shrub provides both culinary value and ornamental appeal.
Plant Category
Bush Foods
Size (H x W)
Height: 1-3 meters, Spread: 2-4 meters
Atriplex nummularia naturally occurs in arid and semi-arid regions across inland Australia, thriving in alkaline soils with excellent salt tolerance and extreme drought conditions.
Cultural SIgnificance
Traditionally used by Aboriginal peoples as an important food source, with the nutritious leaves being eaten raw or cooked, and later adopted by European settlers as valuable livestock fodder and human food during harsh conditions.
Kuranga respectfully acknowledges the traditional owners, the Wurundjeri people, as the custodians of this land. We pay respect to all Aboriginal community Elders, past and present, who have resided in the area and have been an integral part of the history of the region.
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