Salt cedar
tamarix ramosissima
Also known as: ["Russian tamarisk","Arabian tamarisk"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub or small tree native to Eurasia, known for its feathery, pinkish-white flowers and tolerance to saline and alkaline soils.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Tamaricaceae |
| Genus: | Tamarix |
| Botanical Name: | Tamarix ramosissima |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: coastal areas or dry, open landscapes
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining; essential to prevent root rot.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy or loamy soil with some organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: high
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of old growth to rejuvenate the plant.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually if moving from shade to sun; protect from intense midday sun in hot climates; ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Full sun is best; avoid deep shade; rotate regularly for even growth.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and avoid frequent light watering.
Soil
well-draining, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline to neutral (pH 7.0–8.0).
Ensure excellent drainage, avoid heavy clay soils, amend with sand or grit if needed.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 4–9; tolerates temperatures from -30°C to 40°C; prefers warm, dry conditions.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature swings; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize once a year in spring; use a balanced formula; water well after fertilizing.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings, remove lower leaves, dip in rooting hormone, plant in medium, keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm (20–25°C), humid, and bright but indirect light; protect from direct sun.
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots typically form in 4–8 weeks; plants may take a full growing season to establish.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, pots, well-draining medium, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use fresh cuttings, keep consistently moist, provide bottom heat if possible, avoid direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective thinning of branches, heading back to encourage denser growth.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or diseased wood.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, gloves, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Disinfect tools, prune dead/damaged wood, shape the plant, clean up debris, apply mulch if needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 cm in diameter); ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if necessary, place in a slightly larger pot with fresh soil, water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for container-grown plants to prevent root-bound conditions.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare fresh soil mix, trim roots if needed, water well after repotting, place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the root zone, apply until water drains from the bottom, ensure soil is moistened deeply, water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add sand or perlite to improve drainage; incorporate compost for organic matter; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, wilting, stunted growth, or browning of foliage.
Cold Stress
Leaves may drop or turn yellow; growth slows or halts; roots may freeze in poorly drained soil.
Solution: Mulch heavily in winter; protect from frost with row covers; ensure soil is well-drained to prevent root damage.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade in extreme heat; water deeply in early morning; increase humidity around the plant.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Choose balanced fertilizer, apply in spring, water after application, avoid late-season feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring; avoid over-fertilizing, especially in late summer or fall.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicTamarix ramosissima is not considered toxic to cats under normal conditions. There are no known adverse effects from incidental contact or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
under normal conditions
Dogs
Non-toxicTamarix ramosissima is not considered toxic to dogs under normal conditions. There are no known adverse effects from incidental contact or ingestion.
⚡ Toxic If:
under normal conditions
Humans
Slightly ToxicTamarix ramosissima contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tamarix ramosissima invasive?
A: Yes, it is considered invasive in many regions, particularly in North America, where it outcompetes native vegetation.
Q: How does Tamarix ramosissima tolerate saline soils?
A: It has specialized glands that excrete excess salt, allowing it to thrive in saline environments.
Q: Does Tamarix ramosissima require pruning?
A: Light pruning can be done to maintain shape, but it is generally low-maintenance.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Tamaricaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–14 days, allowing so |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
