FIRE EFFECTS
SPECIES: Atriplex gardneri | Gardner's Saltbush 



IMMEDIATE FIRE EFFECT ON PLANT : 
The chemical composition of Gardner's saltbush renders it "fire
resistant", and it burns very slowly when ignited [20].  It is sometimes
top-killed by fire, however [19,21].



DISCUSSION AND QUALIFICATION OF FIRE EFFECT : 
Gardner's saltbush is described as fire resistant because it contains
high concentrations of minerals that increase char formation, but has
low concentrations of volatile, flammable compounds [22].  It is
characterized by an unusually high ash content and a low volatization
rate [20,23].  Ash content and volatization (Vol.) rates are as follows
[23]:

               Ash         Max. Vol.      Vol. from     Cellulose  Cellulose
                             Rate       175-350 deg C   Exotherm   Endotherm
                                                          Temp.      Temp.
         (% dry weight)  (mg/percent)                    (deg C)    (deg C)

Saltsage-dry  26.78          0.049            55           318        288
Saltsage-     27.07          0.045            52           320        272
  irrigated
                                                       
In California, the heat value of Gardner's saltbush ranged from 6,750 to
7,000 BTUs per pound, with foliage averaging 7,000 BTUs per pound [20].


PLANT RESPONSE TO FIRE : 
Most Atriplex spp. sprout after fire, recovering fully within 2 to 3
years [30].  Vigorous root-sprouting has been well documented in a
number of native and cultivated strains of Gardner's saltbush [19].


DISCUSSION AND QUALIFICATION OF PLANT RESPONSE : 
Gardner's saltbush recovered quickly along railroad right-of-ways burned
repeatedly to reduce weeds [19].


FIRE MANAGEMENT CONSIDERATIONS : 
Gardner's saltbush is known for its "fire-resistant" properties.  It has
been considered for planting on fuelbreaks in southern California [23].

Related categories for Species: Atriplex gardneri | Gardner's Saltbush