Seidlitzia stocksii

Seidlitzia stocksii is a shrub species of the family Amaranthaceae (formerly classified under the Chenopodiaceae).
Vernacular name: It is locally known as "khar", meaning salty.
Taxonomy.
It was first described as a new species by Pierre Edmond Boissier in the 1859 "Diagnoses plantarum orientalium novarum". Phylogenetic analysis in 2007 revealed that the species did not belong to genus "Haloxylon" and had to be classified in the genus "Salsola", however, the correct name is given as "Seidlitzia stocksii" in "Plants of the World Online". It was recombined with, i.e. moved to, the genus "Seidlitzia" by Mostafa Assadi in 2001.
"Seidlitzia stocksii" belongs to the subfamily Salsoloideae of the family Amaranthaceae.
Description.
"Seidlitzia stocksii" is a sturdy, glabrous or pruinose shrub 25–80 cm tall, its branches are prostrate or ascending. The distinct, sessile, spreading leaves are terete, fleshy, to 5 mm long and 1,5 mm in diameter. The opposite branches spread nearly horizontally. The inflorescences are wide panicles with 3–12 cm long spike-like branches with numerous flowers. Perianth segments are only 1,5 mm long. The 5 stamens are alternating with ovate staminodes. Fruiting, the perianth segments develop spreading brown wings, circa 6 mm in diameter. The seed diameter is 2,5–3 mm.
Pollination and dissemination.
"Seidlitzia stocksii" is pollinated by small wild bees (Hymenoptera), that were observed to collect pollen (see photo). The winged fruits are dispersed by the wind (anemochory).
Distribution.
"Seidlitzia stocksii" is distributed in Afghanistan, Pakistan and West India (Punjab, Rajasthan), where it grows on sandy or loamy saline soils (halophyte) and limestone hills.
Uses.
"Seidlitzia stocksii" is used as a source of crude sodium carbonate (barilla or "sajji-khar"). The "sajji-khar" is added as an ingredient for unique taste of "papad", a crispy flatbread. The ash of this plant is used as substitute of soap for cleaning clothes and is also taken with water for treatment of internal ulcers.