Shadscale
Atriplex confertifolia

Family: Amaranth (Amaranthaceae)
AKA: Saltbush, Sheepfat, Spiny Saltbush
Photo taken on: April 13, 2015
Location: Plaza Blanca, Abiquiu, NM
Life Zones: Foothills to montane
Habitat: Dry, open, hot hillsides

A spiny rounded shrub growing to 2 ½ft with small, oval leaves. The leaves are covered in a scale which makes them appear silvery. Tiny yellow flowers are inconspicuous, the pink bracts are more noticeable.

Flora of North America reference.