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Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 16 Oct 2026methodology → read

California Goosefoot

Chenopodium californicum
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Chenopodium californicum (California Goosefoot) — botanical photograph
Pl. 2797 — Chenopodium californicum
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Overview

California Goosefoot, scientifically known as Chenopodium californicum, is a native annual plant found in the arid and semi-arid regions of California and northwest Mexico. This hardy plant thrives in full sun and can tolerate both dry and moist conditions, making it adaptable to various soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay). Known for its edible parts—leaves, seeds, and shoots—it is a valuable resource for foragers and gardeners alike. One distinctive feature of California Goosefoot is its ability to grow up to 0.6 meters in height, adding a touch of greenery to landscapes while providing sustenance. This plant is also useful for its utility in dye, gum, and soap production, making it a versatile addition to both natural and cultivated settings. While not traditionally used medicinally, its edible and ornamental qualities make it a noteworthy species in the Chenopodiaceae family.

Quick answers

What is California Goosefoot?

California Goosefoot, scientifically known as Chenopodium californicum, is a native annual plant found in the arid and semi-arid regions of California and northwest Mexico.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

California Goosefoot thrives in full sun and can grow up to 0.6 meters tall. It prefers well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) but requires dry to moist conditions. The plant is an annual and is hardy in temperate regions. For cultivation, ensure the soil is fertile and the plant receives ample sunlight. Water regularly to maintain moisture levels, but avoid overwatering. Harvest the leaves, shoots, and seeds for culinary use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Dry, Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow California Goosefoot for the first time

8steps

Start with California Goosefoot for a simple and rewarding gardening experience.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds, small pots or direct planting area, garden tools.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost or start seeds indoors about 4 weeks before transplanting.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with full sun. Prepare soil that is well-draining, light to heavy, and free of weeds.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 0.5 cm deep in the garden bed or start them indoors in small pots before transplanting.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Keep soil moist until germination. Thin seedlings to about 30 cm apart once they have several leaves.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune back any leggy growth to encourage bushier plants. Harvest leaves and shoots as needed for cooking.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, neglecting to thin seedlings.

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Edible & utility

Edible parts:LeavesSeedShoots
Edible uses: Gum
Other uses:DyeGumSoap
Contextrange · companions · related
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Distribution

2 native · 0 introduced
Distribution across0 continents· 2 native
Broader regions
native:California, Mexico Northwest
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Specimen gallery

1 image
Chenopodium californicum (California Goosefoot) — botanical photograph
California Goosefoot (Chenopodium californicum)
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Explore further

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About this entry

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