Saltlover Plant: Why This Non-Native Species Should Stay Out of Your Garden
If you’ve stumbled across the name saltlover while researching plants for your garden, you might be intrigued by its salt tolerance. However, before you consider adding Halogeton glomeratus to your landscape, there are some important things you need to know about this problematic non-native species.
What is Saltlover?
Saltlover (Halogeton glomeratus) is an annual forb – essentially a non-woody herbaceous plant that completes its life cycle in one growing season. Originally from Eurasia, this plant has established itself across much of the western United States, where it’s become more of a headache than a garden helper.
Where You’ll Find Saltlover
This non-native species has spread throughout the western states, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, and Wyoming. It particularly thrives in disturbed areas with alkaline, salty soils – hence the name saltlover.
Why You Shouldn’t Plant Saltlover
Here’s where things get serious: saltlover isn’t just an unwelcome garden guest – it’s actually toxic to livestock and considered invasive in many areas. This plant contains oxalates that can poison cattle, sheep, and other grazing animals, sometimes fatally. Additionally, once established, it tends to crowd out native vegetation and disrupt local ecosystems.
Physical Characteristics
Saltlover grows 6 to 24 inches tall with a spreading growth habit. It has small, succulent-like leaves and produces tiny, inconspicuous greenish flowers that are wind-pollinated. While it might survive in harsh conditions where other plants struggle, its aesthetic appeal is minimal at best.
Growing Conditions (For Identification Purposes)
Understanding where saltlover thrives can help you identify and remove it if it appears on your property:
- Alkaline, saline soils
- Disturbed areas like roadsides and overgrazed pastures
- Drought-prone locations
- USDA hardiness zones 4-9 in western regions
Better Alternatives for Salt-Tolerant Gardens
If you’re dealing with salty or alkaline soils and need hardy plants, consider these native alternatives instead:
- Saltbush species (Atriplex spp.) – native shrubs with excellent salt tolerance
- Desert willow (Chilopsis linearis) – beautiful flowering tree for arid regions
- Four o’clock (Mirabilis multiflora) – native perennial with showy flowers
- Indian ricegrass (Achnatherum hymenoides) – native grass perfect for restoration
What to Do If You Find Saltlover
If you discover saltlover growing on your property, the best course of action is removal. Since it’s an annual, preventing seed production is key to control. Hand-pulling works for small infestations, but be sure to wear gloves and dispose of the plants properly – don’t compost them!
The Bottom Line
While saltlover might sound like an interesting addition to a xeriscape garden, its invasive nature and toxicity make it a plant to avoid. Instead, focus on native species that can handle tough growing conditions while supporting local wildlife and ecosystems. Your garden – and your local environment – will be better for it.
