The defi nition of halophytes is manifold. Despite were recognized for many centuries, there are many data which remain obscure regarding their defi nition, biology and the place among other ecological groups of plants. A deep and fast progress in plant biology was recorded, but this is not a general rule for assuring a better understanding of some basic aspects in the biology of halophytes. We project our work focusing on two diametrical concepts: physiological drought of soil and salt stress. The fi rst is quite old, while the second is recent and very modern. We propose an approach based on a holistic vision about halophytes, built on these two historical concepts.