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Leafy goosefoot

Chenopodium foliosum
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Chenopodium foliosum (Leafy goosefoot) — botanical photograph
Pl. E9E5 — Chenopodium foliosum
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Overview

Leafy goosefoot, scientifically known as Chenopodium foliosum, is an annual plant belonging to the Amaranthaceae family. Native to Eurasia and Germany, this plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. It grows up to 0.6 meters tall and is hardy in zones 4-8. Leafy goosefoot is adaptable to various growing conditions, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes. The plant is known for its edible parts, including leaves, fruit, and seeds. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked and are often added to salads for a mild flavor. The seeds and fruits are typically dried before use and can be incorporated into soups and stews. Leafy goosefoot has been introduced into numerous regions, including Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, and many others, making it a widely distributed plant with culinary value. This plant's adaptability to different soil types and its ability to grow in diverse environments make it a valuable addition to gardens and landscapes. While primarily used for its edible parts, Leafy goosefoot's presence in various regions highlights its ornamental and cultivation relevance.

Quick answers

What is Leafy goosefoot?

Leafy goosefoot, scientifically known as Chenopodium foliosum, is an annual plant belonging to the Amaranthaceae family. Native to Eurasia and Germany, this plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist, light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
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Cultivation

Leafy goosefoot thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant, which grows to about 0.6 meters, is hardy in zones 4-8. For best results, keep the soil consistently moist and provide ample sunlight. Propagate through seeds, as the plant is annual. Enjoy its edible leaves, fruit, and seeds.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
4-8
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
0.6 m tall
For first-time growers

How to grow Leafy goosefoot for the first time

8steps

Leafy goosefoot is a straightforward annual plant for beginners to grow.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Seeds, small pots or trays, potting soil, a garden bed with full sun exposure.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are mild and stable.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Prepare well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure containers have drainage holes.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before the last frost. Transplant seedlings outdoors when they are about 2 inches tall and the weather is warm.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Protect from strong winds or cold snaps.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Provide consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. Fertilize lightly every 4-6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and prevent the plant from becoming leggy. Harvest leaves and young shoots as needed for cooking.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in poor soil, neglecting regular pruning, and not providing enough sunlight.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:FruitLeavesSeed
Edible uses: The leafy goosefoot is edible and can be consumed in various forms. The leaves, seeds, and fruits are all usable. Leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds and fruits are typically dried before use. They may be added to salads for a mild flavor or incorporated into soups and stews.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

2 native · 31 introduced
Distribution across3 continents· 2 native· 31 introduced
Europe11 regions
native (1)Germany
introduced (10)AlbaniaAustriaBulgariaCyprusFranceGreeceItalyRussiaSpainSwitzerland
Asia10 regions
introduced (10)AfghanistanChinaIranIraqKazakhstanNepalPakistanTurkeyTurkmenistanUzbekistan
Africa2 regions
introduced (2)AlgeriaLibya
Broader regions
native:Eurasia
introduced:Altay, Kirgizstan, Lebanon-Syria, Tadzhikistan, Transcaucasus, Tuva, West Himalaya, Yugoslavia
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Chenopodium foliosum (Leafy goosefoot) — botanical photograph
Leafy goosefoot (Chenopodium foliosum)
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Explore further

Growing zone
Native to
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