Four-wing salt cedar
tamarix tetrandra
Also known as: ["Four-wing tamarisk","Salt cedar"]
Overview
A deciduous shrub native to Eurasia, known for its feathery foliage and tolerance to saline and alkaline soils.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","salt tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Tamaricaceae |
| Genus: | Tamarix |
| Botanical Name: | Tamarix tetrandra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Shrubs
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sunny, open area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–10–40°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"5–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining
- 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 to heavy
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sunlight; protect from harsh afternoon sun in hot climates; ensure adequate light indoors with supplemental grow lights if needed.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even light exposure; use sheer curtains to filter intense sun; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–14 days, allowing soil to dry between waterings
Water thoroughly until runoff, ensure good drainage, and avoid frequent shallow watering.
Soil
well-drained, sandy or loamy soil
pH: Slightly alkaline (pH 7.0–7.5)
Use a cactus mix as base; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F/18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in heat.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 2–3 months during active growth
Fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use a low-nitrogen formula for flowering plants.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing
Environment
Warm (70–75°F/21–24°C), high humidity (70–80%), bright indirect light
Medium
Well-draining mix of perlite and peat moss or cactus mix
Hormone
Recommended to promote root development
Timeline
Roots in 4–6 weeks; establish in 2–3 months
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain humidity with a plastic cover; avoid direct sun during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Selective cutting of branches to maintain form; remove crossing or crowded stems
Pruning Plan
Shape plant, encourage bushiness, and remove dead or weak growth to improve health and appearance.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers (for larger branches), gloves
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune at a 45-degree angle; remove dead/diseased wood; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2–3 inches in diameter)
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for growth and soil health.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot with drainage; use fresh soil mix; water after repotting.
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 to root depth, and water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply but infrequently, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Reduce watering in winter to match lower light and temperature conditions.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis, leaf drop, stunted growth, or wilting in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold; susceptible to root rot if soil stays wet.
Solution: Move to a sheltered location; protect roots with mulch; avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or reduced flowering in extreme heat; may drop leaves to conserve water.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity; water deeply but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid contact with foliage.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms if they consume parts of Tamarix tetrandra. The toxicity is generally low, but ingestion should still be avoided to prevent discomfort.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicIn dogs, ingestion of Tamarix tetrandra seeds and bark may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset. The plant does not typically cause severe toxicity, but caution is advised due to potential irritation.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicTamarix tetrandra contains compounds that can cause mild gastrointestinal distress when ingested. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract, with no severe systemic effects reported.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Tamarix tetrandra invasive?
A: It can be invasive in some regions, particularly in North America, where it outcompetes native vegetation.
Q: How often should I water Tamarix tetrandra?
A: Water sparingly, as it is highly drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions.
Q: Does Tamarix tetrandra attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it is known to attract bees, butterflies, and birds due to its nectar-rich flowers.
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
