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Chenopodium acuminatum

Chenopodium acuminatum
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Chenopodium acuminatum (Chenopodium acuminatum) — botanical photograph
Pl. BA4A — Chenopodium acuminatum
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Overview

Chenopodium acuminatum, commonly known as lamb's quarters, is an annual plant belonging to the goosefoot family (Chenopodiaceae). Native to a wide range of regions including Altay, Amur, Buryatiya, China North-Central, and China Southeast, this plant thrives in full sun and prefers soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Growing up to 0.6 meters tall, it is adaptable to various habitats, from East European Russia to Vietnam, highlighting its presence in temperate and subtropical regions. The leaves and seeds of Chenopodium acuminatum are edible, making it a valuable resource in areas where it grows naturally. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds are often used in cooking after being dried. This plant has been introduced into Bulgaria and Czechoslovakia, further expanding its range. Its ability to grow in diverse environments and its edible parts make it a useful plant for foragers and gardeners alike. While not traditionally used for medicinal purposes, its widespread presence and adaptability make it an interesting subject for further study. For cultivation, ensure the soil is not overly dry, as the plant requires consistent moisture. Propagation can be done through seeds, which can be sown directly in the garden once the danger of frost has passed. This plant's adaptability and edible parts make it a valuable addition to gardens and natural landscapes.

Quick answers

What is Chenopodium acuminatum?

Chenopodium acuminatum, commonly known as lamb's quarters, is an annual plant belonging to the goosefoot family (Chenopodiaceae).

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Chenopodium acuminatum thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant grows to about 0.6 meters and is native to regions including Altay, Amur, and parts of China. For cultivation, ensure the soil is not overly dry, as the plant requires consistent moisture. Propagation can be done through seeds, which can be sown directly in the garden once the danger of frost has passed.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Chenopodium acuminatum for the first time

8steps

Start with simple soil and full sun, perfect for a beginner gardener.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds or seedlings, a small trowel, and a watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost, when soil is warm.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a spot with full sun. Use well-draining soil that's light or medium.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in rows, spacing them about 30 cm apart. Alternatively, start indoors and transplant after danger of frost passes.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Thin seedlings to 30 cm apart once they have several leaves.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune occasionally to encourage bushy growth. Harvest young leaves for cooking when needed.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting to thin seedlings.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The leaves and seeds of Chenopodium acuminatum are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds are often used in cooking after being dried.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

26 native · 2 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 26 native· 2 introduced
Europe2 regions
native (1)Russia
introduced (1)Bulgaria
Asia9 regions
native (9)ChinaJapanKazakhstanMongoliaPhilippinesSouth KoreaTaiwanTurkmenistanVietnam
Broader regions
native:Altay, Amur, Buryatiya, Chita, Irkutsk, Krasnoyarsk, Nansei-shoto, Primorye, South China Sea, Tuva
introduced:Czechoslovakia
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Chenopodium acuminatum (Chenopodium acuminatum) — botanical photograph
Chenopodium acuminatum (Chenopodium acuminatum)
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Explore further

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