14. Saltcedar
Saltcedar (Tamarix ramosissima)
- An escaped ornamental that has become naturalized along streams, canals, and reservoirs
- Dense stands form near springs and waterways
- Large plants can transpire at least 200 gallons of water per day and often dry up ponds and streams
- Accumulates salt and releases it into the soil, making soil unsuitable for many native species
Top photo by John M. Randall, The Nature Conservancy
Bottom photo by Steve Dewey, Utah State University (bugwood.org)