Atriplex hortensis Copper Plume – Graceful copper silver salt

The Atriplex hortensis Copper Plume, also known as copper salt or silver salt, is a striking annual ornamental plant that adds both color and texture to the garden. With its long, copper-colored to reddish-brown leaves, this plant is a striking addition to flower borders, vegetable gardens, and mixed garden plantings. Copper Plume grows quickly and can reach a height of up to 120 cm, providing a beautiful vertical structure in any garden.

The metallic copper-colored leaves create a dramatic contrast with green and flowering plants, creating a visually striking effect. This Atriplex is ideal for gardeners seeking elegant foliage, height, and color accents in their borders or vegetable garden.

Origin and characteristics

Atriplex hortensis, also known as silver saltwort, is a plant native to Europe and Asia and is known for its rapid growth, robustness, and edible qualities. The Copper Plume cultivar was selected for its intense copper-colored leaves, vigorous growth, and ornamental value, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Characteristics of Atriplex hortensis Copper Plume:

• Leaf color: copper-colored to reddish brown

• Height: 100–120 cm

• Type: annual plant

• Use: borders, vegetable garden, mixed garden plants, back parts of borders

• Special feature: the leaves are edible and can be used in salads or like spinach.

The striking colour and large leaves also make this plant suitable as a background for lower flowers or as cut greenery in flower arrangements.

Location and care

The Atriplex hortensis Copper Plume grows best in a sunny spot with well-drained, fertile soil. It's low-maintenance and drought-tolerant, making it suitable for both large gardens and smaller vegetable plots.

Growing and care tips:

• Sowing: directly in the garden after the last frost or sow indoors

• Planting distance: 30–40 cm for optimal growth

• Soil: nutritious, well-drained

• Water: regularly during dry periods

• Pruning: Removing faded flowers or leaves stimulates new growth and keeps the plant compact.

Thanks to its fast and strong growth, this Atriplex is a reliable annual addition to any garden.

Use in garden and kitchen

Atriplex hortensis Copper Plume is versatile:

• Borders: back part of the border for height and color

• Vegetable garden: leaves can be eaten like spinach or used in salads

• Flower boxes and pots: striking height and leaf color

• Combination with flowers: contrasts beautifully with green, white or pink flowers

The copper-colored leaves of Copper Plume create a dramatic and elegant effect, whether planted as a standalone or in groups.

Bee-friendly and sustainable

The Atriplex hortensis Copper Plume attracts bees and other pollinators and is a low-maintenance, robust annual. Its edible qualities also make it suitable for gardens focused on sustainability and biodiversity.

Summary

Conclusion

The Atriplex hortensis Copper Plume is a striking, copper-leaved plant that adds height, color, and edible value to the garden. Its vigorous growth, striking color, and versatility make this annual ideal for borders, vegetable gardens, and mixed plantings.