Iodine-bush
Allenrolfea occidentalis
Care
full sun
1–7ft tall
Resistant
Friendly
Desert alkali scrub of the central valley margins and Mojave Desert from sea level to 2000 ft elevation.
Care Guide
Planting
Plant your iodine-bush in full sun in well-draining soil - this plant thrives in the alkaline, sandy conditions of desert washes and salt flats, so if your Bay Area soil tends toward clay, amend heavily with coarse sand and avoid areas that stay wet. Space plants according to your desired mature height (they range from 1 to 7 feet), keeping in mind they work well as hedges. Plant in fall or early spring to give the plant time to establish before summer heat.
After Planting
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep root system, then taper off as the plant matures - iodine-bush is adapted to very dry conditions and will need minimal supplemental water once established. The #1 mistake is overwatering: this plant evolved in arid, salty soils and will rot if kept consistently moist, so err on the side of dry, especially in the Bay Area's wetter winters. Prune as needed to maintain your desired hedge shape or natural form.
Wildlife Supported
Birds
Seeds consumed during migration staging and winter foraging in coastal salt marsh habitats
Insects
Larval feeding on halophytic vegetation during growing season
Endophytic or pathogenic fungus associated with plant tissues