Atriplex patula, Common Orache

Common Name: Common Orache

Atriplex patula, more commonly known as Common Orache, is an annual, medium to tall much branched plant, somewhat pale-looking with ridged stems. Leaves are 3 to 14 cm in length, arrow shaped or almost diamond shaped. Narrowed at the base, upper leaves much narrower. Flowers in long spikes or lateral clusters. Fruit enclosed within diamond shaped bracts.

Usual habitat is disturbed ground, waste places and cultivated land, flowering July to October. Common throughout most of Britain, except in some northern areas.

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