SPREADING ORACH, Atriplex patula L. 1, flowering branch; 2, female flower. Annual, reproducing by seed. Stem smooth, slender, 1 to 4 feet (0.3 to 1.2 m) long, with numerous spreading branches. Leaves petioled, fleshy, triangular, lanceolate or linear, mostly opposite, usually mealy, especially on lower surface. Flowers small without petals; male and female flowers borne separately on the same plant in scattered spikes at ends of branches and in axils of upper leaves. Seed round, gray, borne between 2 triangular green bracts. Found in damp saline soil. Seldom a troublesome weed.