Atriplex hymenelytra aka Desert Holly

Atriplex hymenelytra, or desert holly, is a small evergreen shrub. It is part of the Amaranthaceae family. Its native range covers the southwestern United States and northwestern Mexico. It grows in deserts and dry shrubland. In the United States, it grows in Utah and Nevada. It also grows in California and Arizona. In Mexico, its range includes Baja California and Sonora. It grows widely in the Death Valley area. Wild plants grow on alluvial fans, where water leaves soil and stones. They also grow in washes, on stony outcrops, and on ridges.

The shrub has a compact shape and grows wider than tall. In gardens, it reaches about 2–3 feet [0.6–0.9 metres] tall. Its whitish branches help give it a pale look. The leaves are simple, with one blade each. They grow alternately, or one at a time, along the stems. Each leaf can reach about 0.13 feet [0.04 metres] long. Its width can be much the same. Coarse, sharp teeth line the edges, much like holly leaves. This shape helps explain the plant's common name. The leaves are silvery white and may turn purple with age. Though evergreen, the shrub can shed leaves in extreme drought.

The small flowers do not stand out. Their colour ranges from yellow to orange. Male and female flowers grow on separate plants. The term for this is dioecious. Its papery fruits are flat and shaped like discs. They measure about 0.02–0.07 feet [0.006–0.020 metres] across. The pale leaves and papery fruit show more detail than the small flowers. The supplied account of this species gives no bloom season.

Grow desert holly in full sun with good drainage. Oregon State University says plants need no added water once established. This makes it a low-water choice once its roots have settled. Its wild sites also place it in dry, stony spots. Oregon State lists hardiness to USDA zone 9b. That rating does not support growing it as a shrub for colder zones. Garden plants still need good drainage.

Its low, broad shape and silver leaves have garden value. The sharp leaf edges add detail when viewed up close. The best-supported traits for gardens are its pale leaves and drought tolerance. The supplied evidence gives no pest or disease guidance for this species. Nor does it support claims about which parts people can eat. It gives no basis for claims of safety for people or pets.