Atriplex Species, Desert Holly

This is a gorgeous broadleaf evergreen shrub native here in S. Utah, and elsewhere throughout mild areas of the Southwestern U.S. This is...Read More easily one of the most beautiful, and unique of all the native North American Atriplex species. These shrubs grow in very tough, dry, and hot environments in the Mojave, and Sonoran Deserts. This shrub reaches about 4 feet tall, and about 4-5 feet wide. Atriplex hymenelytra has very vibrant blue/silver foliage that stands out year round. And looks very similar to our Utah native Sonoran Live Oak, or a blue Holly or some sort ( hence the name Desert Holly). This plant will not grow anywhere where the ground freezes whatsoever, or where air temps get below about 15°F for any amount of time. This is a FANTASTIC evergreen desert shrub that would pair quite nicely with Cacti, Yuccas, Agaves, & Palms if you can get your hands on one! You can be pretty certain you won’t find one for sale outside of Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and California. As they are basically non existent in nurseries outside of their native range. GREAT PLANT!

This is a hard to find but very attractive desert plant. It is attractive year round with silvery mealy leaves. It is quite alkali toler...Read Moreant and drought tolerant. It will die if it is kept in a pot for too long as it likes to let it's roots sprawl. Plants are diecious and bear purple or green flowers. I am told they are propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings in rock wool, but I have never tried it.