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Atriplex hymenelytra (Torr.) S. Watson

Desert holly

KingdomPlantaePlants, but not fungi, lichens, or algae
SubkingdomTracheobiontaVascular plants—plants with a “circulatory system” for delivering water and nutrients
DivisionMagnoliophytaFlowering plants, also known as angiosperms
ClassMagnoliopsidaDicotyledons—plants with two initial seed leaves
SubclassCaryophyllidaeCacti, many other succulents, carnivorous plants, and leadworts
OrderCaryophyllalesIncludes cacti, carnations, amaranths, ice plants, and many carnivorous plants
FamilyAmaranthaceaeAmaranth family
GenusAtriplexAn ancient Latin name for this plant
Specieshymenelytra

About plant names...

Desert holly is a type of saltbush.

Identification: This bush has a thickened, woody base, and is 12-59″ (30-150 cm) high. It has silvery green leaves and twisted leaves with multiple pointed tips, like holly. Leaves are ⅜-1½″ (1-4 cm) long, with teeth up to ⅜″ (1 cm). The fruits, enclosed in modified leaves, are red-brown, and look a bit like holly berries. Flowers are yellow to purple-brown, in spikes up to 1″ (3 cm) long.

Online References:

The Anza-Borrego Desert Natural History Association (great photos)

The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Wikimedia Commons

CalPhotos

SEINet—the Southwest Environmental Information Network

The Jepson Manual

 

Atriplex hymenelytra description by Thomas H. Kent, last updated 25 May 2020.

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Atriplex hymenelytra (desert holly)

10/4/2003 · Death Valley, Cali­fornia · By Constance B. Kent ID is uncertain

Range:

About this map...