Salsola L.

1–2 species in Aust.; all states and territories

Salsola tragus L.

Annual herb mostly c. 50 cm high but up to 1 m, diffuse when young, becoming hemispherical at maturity. Leaves terete or linear, up to 3 cm long on younger parts, mostly c. 1 cm long on older parts, semi-succulent, pungent pointed. Flowers sessile, axillary, usually solitary. Perianth segments 5, closing over the fruit and finally each producing a horizontal wing; the whole perianth 4–7 mm diam. Widespread, often in saline areas. Fl. spring–summer. Prickly Rolypoly or Saltwort