"The Biology of the Facultative Halophyte Atriplex patula L."

Atriplex patula L. is a facultative halophyte that tolerates low to moderate levels of salinity and occurs on the margins of coastal salt marshes, roadsides, in agricultural fields, and in other areas where disturbance has occurred. The genus Atriplex L. is represented by about 250 species globally and has recently been included in the family Amaranthaceae subfamily Chenopodioidae. Atriplex patula was possibly introduced in North America from Europe, Asia or North Africa in the 18th century. Because the stems and leaves accumulate and store heavy metal pollutants, A. patula has been suggested for use in habitat remediation.