Chenopodium hybridum
Chenopodium hybridumfam. Chenopodiaceae
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Pl. B206 — Chenopodium hybridum
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IOverview
Overview
Chenopodium hybridum, known as Skip in common parlance, is an annual plant native to North European Russia and found in moist environments with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil. This plant reaches a height of 1.5 meters and is valued for its edible leaves and seeds. It thrives in slightly alkaline soils with a pH between 7.5 and 8. While not extensively cultivated, Skip is recognized for its culinary use, adding a light flavor to dishes. Its distinctive feature lies in its adaptability across various soil types, making it a resilient plant in its native range.
Quick answers
What is Chenopodium hybridum?
Chenopodium hybridum, known as Skip in common parlance, is an annual plant native to North European Russia and found in moist environments with light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soil. This plant reaches a height of 1.5 meters and is valued for its edible leaves and seeds.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Chenopodium hybridum thrives in light to medium soil and can tolerate heavier clay soils as well. It prefers moist conditions but is not overly fussy about water levels. The plant has a height of 1.5 meters and is an annual, making it suitable for gardens where space is available. Light requirements are moderate with a rating of 7/10. For optimal growth, the soil pH should be between 7.5 and 8. Harvest edible parts such as leaves and seeds throughout the growing season. The plant is hardy in temperate regions but may benefit from protection during colder spells. Propagate via seed sowing directly into the garden bed or start indoors for a head start.
Light
7/10
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
1.5 m tall
Soil pH
7.5–8
For first-time growers
How to grow Chenopodium hybridum for the first time
8steps
Skip is a simple annual plant to grow, perfect for beginners.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or seedlings, a container or garden bed, potting soil if using containers.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant Skip in early spring after the last frost, or start seeds indoors 4-6 weeks before planting outdoors.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Ensure the soil is well-draining with a pH of 7.5–8. Use containers at least 30 cm deep for good root growth.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 1-2 cm deep, spacing them about 30 cm apart. Transplant seedlings when they have two true leaves.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide light shade to prevent wilting. Monitor for pests like aphids.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, but avoid overwatering. Fertilize lightly every 4-6 weeks with a balanced organic fertilizer.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune the plant to encourage bushy growth and remove any yellowing leaves. Harvest young leaves for cooking when needed.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting too deep, neglecting to prune, not providing enough light, and using chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The leaves and seeds of Chenopodium hybridum are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw or cooked, while the seeds are typically dried before use in various culinary applications. Both parts add a mild, slightly sweet flavor to dishes.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 30 native
Europe12 regions
native (12)AlbaniaAustriaBelarusBelgiumBulgariaFranceGermanyGreeceHungaryItalyRussiaUkraine
Asia4 regions
native (4)ChinaJapanKazakhstanSouth Korea
Broader regions
native:Czechoslovakia, Krasnoyarsk, Chita, Irkutsk, Altay, Baltic States, Buryatiya, Kirgizstan, Amur, Khabarovsk
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Chenopodiaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Chenopodiaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
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