In season through
Native range:
![Tumbleweed leaves](/_next/image?url=%2Fassets%2Fsalsola%2Fimg%2Ftips.jpg&w=2048&q=75)
The famous tumbleweed or Russian Thistle (Salsola tragus) is edible before it becomes prickly.
Growing tips from small plants have a tart, salty flavor and can be eaten raw or cooked.
It was accidentally introduced in the 1870s and quickly rolled its way across the west.
![Tumbleweeds are diverse. Occasional plants will grow showy pink flowers. Once flowering begins, the plant is too spiny to eat. Tumbleweed flowers](/_next/image?url=%2Fassets%2Fsalsola%2Fimg%2Fflowers.jpg&w=2048&q=75)
Tumbleweeds have a complex relationship with humans and native species. Their prickles are unpleasant and piles can become a fire hazard. Nonetheless, they are eaten by many animals and they can help regenerate barren soil.