[4] Atriplex nummularia is a perennial halophyte species[2] that is extremely hardy, thriving in particularly harsh environments such as saline and alkaline lowlands.

[8] It develops a lattice of woody stems which branch from or close to ground level[2] and utilises a taproot with a subsequent root system that is moderate to deep.

[4] A. nummularia is typically found in lowland areas such as floodplains in both the Northern and Southern hemispheres,[17] favouring saline clay soils.

[6][4] Optimal growth is achieved in places where the mean annual temperature is between 15–24 °C[18] and where rainfall is between 230–650mm per annum,[3] though conditions outside this range may be tolerated once the plant has become well established.

[9] A. nummularia primarily grows on alluvial or limestone soils[6] and while extremely tolerant of both saline and alkaline conditions,[12] it does not cope in an acidic environment.

The lucerne flea (Sminthurus viridis) and red-legged earth mite(Halotydeus destructor) are the most common[4] and can infest the plant, causing significant damage that results in the malformation of new growth.

[10] Atriplex nummularia generally produces small wind-pollinated flowers throughout the winter months (June–August), although this may vary according to seasonal temperature fluctuations.

[22] This is primarily a result of its propensity to survive in harsh environments subject to flooding, drought and high levels of salinity,[19] as well as being palatable to livestock due to the elevated mineral content of the plant.