There isn't one single perfect word for land unable to grow plants. The best word depends on the reason why the land is barren. Here are some possibilities:
* Barren: This is a general term for land that is unproductive, including land that can't support plant life.
* Wasteland: This suggests land that is unproductive and potentially unusable.
* Desert: This specifically refers to land that is extremely dry and receives very little rainfall, making it difficult for plants to grow.
* Tundra: This refers to a cold, treeless biome with permanently frozen ground, which limits plant growth.
* Arid: This describes land that is dry and lacks sufficient moisture for plant growth.
* Infertile: This refers to land that lacks the necessary nutrients for plants to grow.
* Degraded: This suggests land that has been damaged or altered, making it less able to support plant life.
* Saline: This refers to land that has high levels of salt, which can inhibit plant growth.
* Toxic: This describes land that is contaminated with pollutants or chemicals that make it unsafe for plants.
The best word to use will depend on the specific context and the reason why the land is unable to grow plants.