Atriplex halimus is an evergreen halophytic shrub that grows up to 2 metres high and 2-3 metres wide. It is widely distributed in arid and semi-arid regions throughout the Mediterranean Basin, North and East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. It is also known by the common names of sea pulsane, , sea orache, shrub orache, and silver orache, and is associated with coastal wetlands, but in dry or sandy soils. It is also hardy and can withstand frost (-5 and -10°C) but not when associated with wet soil conditions.

The dense, silvery-grey ovate leaves are the main feature of this plant, as the flowers, which appear in June and July, are of little garden interest. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by wind.

Atriplex halimus prefers unimproved, well-drained, poor soils and will not tolerate wet or fertile conditions, although it will grow well in very sandy soils. This is a plant that thrives in exposed locations, preferring full sun and will not do well in shade where it will quickly become weak and leggy, but if these criteria are met it is easy to grow. The growth habit is multi-stemmed and it makes a good hedge, responding well to pruning and shaping.