Cliff Stabilization Plants for Puget Sound Bluff: Deep-Rooted, Salt-Tolerant Natives

Stabilizing a Puget Sound bluff with clay layers and seeps requires deep-rooted, salt-tolerant plants that bind soil. Two Mediterranean natives excel here.

Primary Recommendation: Spanish Broom (Spartium junceum)

• Wikipedia
• Grows almost anywhere
• Exceptional soil binding
• Nitrogen-fixing legume (enriches soil)
• Cold-hardy for Pacific Northwest

Companion: Atriplex humilis (Saltbush)

• Wikipedia
• Salt-spray resistant
• Attractive grey-green foliage
• Strong soil stabilization
• Native to coastal Mediterranean

Planting Strategy

• Plant in mixed drifts, not rows
• Space 3-4 feet apart for quick coverage
• Supplement with native NW erosion-control plants (consult local conservation district)
• No irrigation needed once established

Why These Work

Mediterranean climate parallels (wet winters, dry summers) make these adapted to Puget Sound conditions. Deep taproots penetrate clay layers to anchor the slope.