Chenopodium parabolicum
fragrant saltbush
Overview
Chenopodium parabolicum is an aromatic perennial subshrub growing 1-3 feet (30-90 cm) tall and spreading 1.5-3 feet (45-90 cm) wide, with a mounded, much-branched form. The leaves are roughly diamond-shaped, 0.4-1.2 inches (1-3 cm) long, grey-green and covered with glands that release a scent when crushed. Small green flowers without petals are clustered in short spikes among the upper leaves through the warmer months, followed by small fruits each holding a single seed. The branches are slender and the foliage is mealy to the touch. The plant grows on heavy, often saline or alkaline soils in inland regions and tolerates extended drought and seasonal salinity. It dies back in severe drought and reshoots from the base after rain. The aromatic grey foliage persists on the branches outside the flowering period.
Native Range
Native to inland Australia across the arid and semi-arid zones of several states. Grows on clay and loam soils on floodplains, claypans, and saline flats, often where water gathers after rain.Suggested Uses
Grown in dryland, native, and salt-tolerant plantings on heavy soils, spaced about 24-36 inches (60-90 cm) apart. Used for revegetation of claypans and saline flats where few plants persist. The aromatic grey foliage and drought tolerance suit low-water gardens in warm, dry climates.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height1' - 3'
Width/Spread1'6" - 3'
Bloom Information
Flowers through spring and summer, mainly September to March in its native range, with timing tied to rainfall rather than fixed months. Flowering follows soaking rain and may occur more than once in a wet year. The small green flowers are wind-pollinated.
Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Grey-greenGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 6-11 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight