Atriplex confertifolia

Shadscale
Amaranthaceae

Another common salt bush in the desert, Atriplex confertifolia is normally found as a dominant member of the vegetative communities where it grows. Its most distinctive characteristic is the deep maroon bracts that clasp its flowers. Despite appearances, these are not true petals, but instead modified "leaves" that have a flower like appearance.

Atriplex canescens

Four Wing Saltbush
Amaranthaceae

One of the most widely distributed species in the Mojave complex, where it is found on disturbed or dune complex sites. This plant is eaisly recognizable by its fruits, which bear four longitudinal wings at ≈90º to each-other. The bushes can range from 2 to 10ft. tall, but most are around 4ft. They are later succeeded by Atriplex confertifolia.