Of 54 species of Tamarix worldwide, eight species have been introduced to United States since the early 1800's as ornamental plants. These originated in Southern Europe, the Mediterranean region, and parts of the Middle East and Africa.

Saltcedar was first reported growing in the wild in 1872. Several species are now widespread, especially in the Intermountain region and the desert southwest.

Saltcedar colonizes flood plains, stream banks, edges of waterways, and lakeshores. It needs abundant soil moisture to establish.