Abstract: Abstract:Atriplex cana is a xerophytic subshrub with drought resistance, salinity resistance and low fertility tolerance. It is a useful forage plant in Xinjiang. Experiments were conducted to determine the effects of temperature, seed bract removal, and NaCl on seed germination. Seeds were able to germinate in a range of temperatures from 5/15℃ to 25/35℃. The higher the temperature, the faster the germination occurred. The optimum temperature regime for seed germination was 20/30℃ and 25/35℃. Under a 25℃ dark/35℃ light regime, the final germination percentage reached a maximum value after 6-8 days of hydration, while under 5/15℃ and 10/20℃ temperature regimes final germination percentage was achieved after 25-34 days. There was a significant increase in seed germination rate after 2-8 months seed storage, while germination percentage of seeds decreased when exposed to natural atmospheric conditions for 10 months. Bracts formed a mechanical barrier to water uptake, and has a significant influence on the final seed germination rate. Removal of bracts promoted seed germination. Germination was not affected by NaCl at concentrations below 0.8 mol/L, but was decreased by NaCl at higher concentrations. Seeds incubated in NaCl at concentrations of 0.05-4.00 mol/L recovered after being transferred to distilled water. After NaCl treatment some seeds retained their vigor, while others lost vigor. Research into seed germination characteristics may reveal a scientific basis for this ecological adaptation trait. Such research may also provide basic data for improvement salinity tolerant forage subshrub production in the Xinjiang desert.