Background <p>In recent years, there has been a growing focus on utilizing suitable plant species for the extraction of heavy metals from contaminated soils. Trees offer a more economically viable option for remediating heavy metal-contaminated soils as their extensive root systems, substantial biomass, lower requirements, and management contribute to reduced operational costs. This study seeks to enhance the understanding of metal accumulation in <i>Tamarix aphylla</i> (L.) H.Karst. and to investigate the variation among different genotypes from the Markazi province in Iran. The genotypes were selected from 11 distinct locations within central Markazi province. One-year-old cuttings were planted in contaminated soil from the effluent outlet of an industrial area in mid-April. The morpho-physiological characteristics and levels of heavy metals in the plant tissues were assessed after a duration of three months.</p> Results <p>The results revealed that the roots of the Ahmad-Abad genotype exhibited the highest levels of copper, iron, manganese, and zinc absorption, whereas its branches demonstrated the greatest sodium uptake. Notably, the Ahmad-Abad genotype also showed the highest potassium absorption. Collectively, these findings suggest that the Ahmad-Abad genotype is particularly suitable for phytoremediation efforts in contaminated environments due to its capacity to accumulate elevated levels of heavy metals.</p> Conclusions <p>The research study provides valuable insights into genetic variation, ecotype diversity, and the potential for genetic engineering to enhance phytoremediation processes in <i>T. aphylla</i>.</p>