''Nitrophila'' is a small genus of flowering plants in the
amaranth family sometimes known by the common name niterworts. The genus name is Greek for "soda-loving", as the plant grows in alkaline or salty soils, such as those rich in
borax. These are
rhizomatous perennials with fleshy foliage that helps them conserve water in environments high in mineral salts. The compact, papery flowers grow in the axils of the plant where the leaves join the branches. The fruit is a
utricle which contains shiny black seeds. ''Nitrophila'' species are found in temperate regions of the Americas.
Selected species:
*''
Nitrophila mohavensis
''Nitrophila mohavensis'' is a rare species of flowering plant in the family Amaranthaceae known by the common name Amargosa niterwort. It is endemic to Nye County in southwestern Nevada and Inyo County, in eastern California.
Distribution and ...
'' - Amargosa niterwort
*''
Nitrophila occidentalis
''Nitrophila occidentalis'' is a species of flowering plant in the family Amaranthaceae known by the common name boraxweed and sometimes western niterwort. It is native to the western United States and northern Mexico, where it can be found in ha ...
'' - boraxweed
External links
Jepson Manual TreatmentUSDA Plants ProfileFlora of North America Profile
Amaranthaceae
Amaranthaceae genera
{{Amaranthaceae-stub
