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To identify the impact of salinity on the development and growth of species resistant to high salt concentration is fundamental for restoration of salty areas in the Northeast brazilian semi-arid region. Seeking to solve this problem this work evaluated the effect of different salt levels on the development and growth of ’carnauba’, a native species with high economical value to the region. The levels analyzed were: 0, 25, 50, 75 and 100 mM of NaCl, corresponding to an electrical conductivity of 2.0, 4.6, 7.1, 9.6 and 12 dS m(-1), respectively. A completely randomized experimental design with five treatments and four replicates was used. The analyzed variables were aerial height, aerial width, main root length, dry weight, aerial/root ratio and survival rate. Treatments with 25 and 50 mM of NaCl did not affect the initial plant survival. Concentration levels greater or equal to 75 mM of NaCl reduced the biomass production and the survival rate in almost 50%. Therefore, plant production at these salt levels is not recommended.