Mat saltbush

Atriplex corrugata

Mat-forming evergreen halophytic shrub under 6 in. tall with yellow to light brown flowers, blooming March to August. May become 5-20 times wider than tall. Adapted to very saline, moderately alkaline, poorly developed, sparsely vegetated and highly erodible silt and clay soils; 4,000 to 7,000 ft. elevation. Occurs on lower hillslopes, clay barrens, plateaus, benches and alkaline flats, sometimes with other saltbushes. More alkaline and salt tolerant than other saltbushes. Fair forage for livestock and wildlife in summer and fall when other forage options are unavailable.