Bayshore/ Marsh Orache

COMMON NAME: Marsh Orache

OTHER COMMON NAME(S): Spearscale Orache

SCIENTIFIC NAME: Atriplex patula

FAMILY: Chenopodiaceae

COMMUNITY: Tidal Marsh

STATUS: Native

LIFESPAN: Annual

HEIGHT: to 3 feet

FLOWERING TIME: Late July to September

FRUITING TIME: Early September to November

DISTRIBUTION: New England to Florida and west to Texas ~ Throughout the coastal strip in NJ and on the Delaware Bay shore

IDENTIFYING CHARACTERISTICS: Mature plant is often lax and prostrate and in some cases growing like a vine.  Stem smooth, green or reddish, angled, slightly granular ~ Leaves distinctive shaped--triangular, grayish green ~ Flowers tiny, green on terminal parts of branches, individual male and female flowers ~ Fruit small, green triangular enclosed in small bracts

GENERAL INFORMATION: This family (Chenopodiaceae) commonly called the Goosefoot family consists of 120 genera and 1,300 species of perennial herbs and a few shrubs and small trees. Greek khen means “goose”, pous means “foot”--the leaves of many species in this family are shaped like a goose’s foot. A cultivated member of the Chenopodiaceae family is Quinoa (Chenopoidum quinoa) is grown for its edible leaves and seeds and has long been a staple part of the diet of the Andean Indians.  Several wild species are also used as potherbs and their seeds ground or parched into meal.  Other members of the Chenopodiaceae family include Beet (Beta vulgaris) and its many varieties are used as a source of sugar and as animal fodder and Spinach (Spinacia oleracea). The triangular shaped leaves of Marsh Orache are distinctive and hence the common name “Spearscale”. Marsh Orache is often found along the upper wrack line along beaches, sand flats or low dunes.  The seeds are eaten by songbirds. 

Please note: While harvesting wild berries/fruit is permitted at Island Beach State Park, visitors must adhere to park regulations at all times and must not damage vegetation or go off designated trails.  This information is presented for educational purposes.