Prickly saltwort
Salsola tragus · Amaranthaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant prickly saltwort: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Type
- Annual herbaceous plant
- Adult size
- 30 to 60 cm in height
- Foliage
- Deciduous, fleshy and linear
- Flowering
- Summer to autumn
- Hardiness
- Low hardiness, frost-sensitive
- Origin
- Arid regions of Asia and North Africa
- Exposure
- Full sun essential
Care
Watering
Salsola tolerates drought very well and prefers dry to moderately moist soil. Water moderately during the growing period, and reduce watering considerably at the end of the season. Avoid excessive water which causes root rot.
Exposure and Light
This plant requires full sun to develop properly. The brighter and warmer the exposure, the better it thrives. It is not suitable for shaded or partially shaded areas.
Soil
Light, well-draining soil, even poor soil works perfectly. Salsola adapts to rocky, sandy, or slightly saline soils. Improve drainage with sand or gravel if the soil retains water.
Pruning and Maintenance
No pruning is necessary as it is an annual. At the end of the season, let the plant dry out naturally or simply pull it up. You can remove dead parts for aesthetic reasons.
Fertilizer
Salsola requires very limited fertilizer. A light mineral application at the beginning of growth is quite sufficient. Avoid nitrogen-rich fertilizers which promote vegetation at the expense of robustness.
Diseases and Pests
This hardy plant is not very susceptible to pests. Monitor excessive humidity which can cause rot. In overly humid conditions, mold may appear; improve ventilation and reduce watering.
Did you know?
Salsola is famous for its ability to accumulate sodium and other salts from the soil. Once, the ashes of this plant were burned to extract soda (hence its name), essential for glassmaking and soap production. It remains a pioneer plant in desert and saline areas, capable of colonizing environments where few other plants can survive.
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.