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Two varieties of Atriplex canescens from a disturbed site in the Navajoan desert of the Colorado Plateau were compared. Variety angustifolia could be distinguished from var. occidentalis by its greater fruit diameter (>1.5 cm) and leaf width:length ratio (>10), and absence of methoxy flavonols in the leaves. Variety angustifolia was the less common variety on the site but was clearly superior to Mr. occidentalis in growth and water use efficiency of seedlings in a greenhouse study. Seedlings of both varieties were transplanted into caliche and dune soil at the site; growth and survival were followed over the establishment year. Variety angustifolia had 3 to 6 times greater canopy volume than var. occidentalis on both soil types, but the differences were greatest on dune soil, in which var. occidentalis had only 32% survival and showed little growth whereas var. angustifolia had nearly complete survival and positive growth over the establishment year. The results support other studies suggesting the diploid var. angustifolia is adapted to rapid establishment on unstable dune soils, whereas the slower-growing var, occidentalis may be adapted for heavier soils which retain moisture longer than dune sand. Variety angustifolia was the better choice of germplasm for revegetation of this disturbed site.