Root Sprouting Research Articles

Atriplex Species [or Taxa] that Spread by Root Spouts, Stem Layers, and by Seed

Some low—growing Atriplex species can reproduce vegetatively as well as by seed. This characteristic suggests that these plants may be used to reduce fire hazard by replacing highly flammable, high—volume chaparral plants in southern California. They may also be suitable as forage for livestock and game, and as a protective soil cover. Root sprouting of Garner's saltbush (A. gardneri) was abundant and widespread under various site conditions in its native habitat in the eastern Great Basin in Utah, upper Colorado River drainage in Wyoming, and in test plantings in southern California. Nuttall's saltbush (A. nuttallii), which reproduces largely by stem layers, also produces some root sprouts.