Phil Kahler

Greasewood

Sarcobatus vermiculatus

Plant type:

Shrub

Lifecycle:

Perennial

Growing season:

Warm

Cover:

High

Soil

Acceptable soil conditions:

Clay,

Loam,

Silt,

Sand

Soil Conditions:

Alkaline

CaCO3 tolerant

Salt

Location

Min elevation:

2000

Max elevation:

8000

Counties:

Carson City,

Churchill,

Douglas,

Elko,

Esmeralda,

Eureka,

Humboldt,

Lander,

Lincoln,

Lyon,

Mineral,

Nye,

Pershing,

Storey,

Washoe,

White Pine

Reproduction & Growth

Growth rate:

Low

Germination overall:

Low

Germination rate:

Fast

Germination requirements:

2-3 months of stratification recommended on newer seed, though not necessary.

Reproduction:

Establishment:

High

Lifespan:

Moderate

Survival:

Moderate

Ecological

Best suited for these site conditions:

Cold

Fire

Best suited for these management goals:

Drought resilience

Erosion control

Pollinator habitat

Wildlife habitat

Additional Information

Warning:

toxic for some animals

Commercial availability:

Commonly available

Citations:

Anderson 2004, USDA 2025.