An overview is given of Girgensohnia (Chenopodiaceae/Amaranthaceae). Five species are recognized including one new species, Girgensohnia bungeana Sukhor. A key for identifying species is provided together with details of their distribution. Lectotypes for the following names are chosen: Girgensohnia diptera Bunge, Girgensohnia oppositiflora (Pall.) Fenzl, Anabasis heteroptera Jaub. & Spach (= Girgensohnia heteroptera (Jaub. & Spach) Bunge), Girgensohnia imbricata Bunge and Girgensohnia pallasii Bunge (= Girgensohnia oppositiflora (Pall.) Fenzl).