Atriplex nummularia –

Old Man Saltbush 

H: 1m 

W: 1m 

Silver grey foliage which is used dried and crushed to flavour savoury dishes and bread. Prune in early spring and autumn to maintain bushy habit.  

Pests and Diseases: There are red mites, lucerne flea and scale that can attack Atriplex nuymmularia along with some caterpilars but if the plant is healthy, fed well, not starving for moisture then damage is very minimal. 

Uses in the garden: Can be used for hedging, as a feature plant, in a food forest and also grows well in pots if grown in native potting mix and mulched well. 

Position: Salt Bush loves a full sun position in the garden with well-drained soil. Doesn’t like to dry out completely so make sure to mulch to retain moisture. 

Propagation: The seed from Atriplex nummularia can be very low due to lack of fertility. The most successful way to propagate is by cuttings where it strikes very easily. Use a semi-hardwood cutting for best results. 

Photo (above) by Narelle Happ

Photo: Michaelrouse

Photo: Gerald Krygsman 

Under Creative Commons License

Source: Aunty Jenni Tillett and Corinne Payne. Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung, Ngarrabul and Walbanja Yuin Women. 

Born and raised on Dharawal/ Tharawal country.

Saltbush Damper

  • 3 cups self-raising flour 

  • 3 tbsp. ground Saltbush 

  • 75g butter 

  • 180ml water 

Method: 

Pre-heat oven to 200°C 

Combine flour and the Saltbush in a food processor or bowl to combine.  

Cut the butter into cubes and add to the processor or rub in with fingers until the mixture resembles breadcrumbs. 

Add water while the processor is running or gradually to the mixture. 

Turn mixture onto a floured board and knead lightly 

Once smooth, pat down to 5cm in height and place on a floured tray 

Score the top several times, lightly dust with flour and remaining Saltbush. 

Cook for 25 minutes. You know it’s cooked by giving it a tap on the bottom and hearing a hollow sound. Serve with Davidsons Plum or Lilly Pilly Jam. 

 

*This information is a guide only. Correct identification is required before trying any native bush foods. Care must be taken to not consume plants in an environment where pesticides or herbicides may have been used.