Crested Goosefoot
Chenopodium cristatum
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Pl. 67DA — Chenopodium cristatum
Chenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatumChenopodium cristatum
IOverview
Overview
Crested Goosefoot (Chenopodium cristatum) is an annual plant native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Australia, including Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia. This member of the Amaranthaceae family thrives in full sun with moist soil that can range from light sandy to heavy clay. Standing at about 0.6 meters tall, it is known for its edible leaves and seeds, making it a useful plant for those interested in foraging or sustainable food sources. One distinctive feature of this plant is its crested appearance, which gives it an attractive ornamental quality in gardens.
Quick answers
What is Crested Goosefoot?
Crested Goosefoot (Chenopodium cristatum) is an annual plant native to the arid and semi-arid regions of Australia, including Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Crested Goosefoot thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant grows to about 0.6 meters tall and is native to regions including Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia. For propagation, sow seeds directly into the garden bed in spring once the danger of frost has passed. Ensure consistent moisture for best growth.
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 Crested Goosefoot for the first time
8steps
Start with simple soil and full sun, perfect for a beginner gardener.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a small trowel, watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring when the soil is warm and all danger of frost has passed.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with full sun. Prepare loose, well-draining soil.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1 cm deep in rows 30 cm apart. Thin seedlings to 25 cm apart.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged. Water once a week if there is no rain.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any leggy growth to encourage bushy foliage. Harvest leaves as needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil, neglecting to mulch.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The crested goosefoot is edible and its leaves and seeds can be consumed. The leaves are typically eaten fresh or cooked in stews and soups. Seeds can be harvested and ground into flour for baking. Both parts add a mild flavor to dishes.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 3 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 3 introducedDistribution across0 continents· 5 native· 3 introduced
Broader regions
native:Western Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria
introduced:South Carolina, Northern Provinces, Cape Provinces
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 67da98a6-b138-43d9-951f-7af91454e055
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