Mapleleaf goosefoot
Chenopodium simplex
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Pl. 841B — Chenopodium simplex
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IOverview
Overview
Mapleleaf goosefoot (Chenopodium simplex) is an annual plant that thrives in a variety of habitats across North America, from Alaska and Alberta to Yukon and the southern states like Texas and Louisiana. Known for its edible leaves and seeds, it grows best in moist conditions with full sun exposure. This plant can reach heights of up to 1.2 meters and is adaptable to different soil types, including light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay) soils. Native to regions such as Alaska, Alberta, Arkansas, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, and Delaware, it has been utilized for its edible parts throughout its range.
Quick answers
What is Mapleleaf goosefoot?
Mapleleaf goosefoot (Chenopodium simplex) is an annual plant that thrives in a variety of habitats across North America, from Alaska and Alberta to Yukon and the southern states like Texas and Louisiana. Known for its edible leaves and seeds, it grows best in moist conditions with full sun exposure.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Mapleleaf goosefoot thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). This annual plant grows up to 1.2 meters tall and is native to a wide range of North American states and provinces. It is hardy in temperate regions but may struggle in areas with extreme heat or cold. For propagation, sow seeds directly into the garden after all danger of frost has passed. The edible parts include leaves and seeds, making it useful both as a leafy green and for harvesting seeds.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
Mature size
1.2 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Mapleleaf goosefoot for the first time
8steps
Start with simple soil and light conditions for a successful Mapleleaf goosefoot planting.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds, small pots or garden space, potting mix, water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, or start seeds indoors a month before planting outdoors.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Start seeds indoors in small pots, then transplant to the garden once they are about 2 inches tall.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Provide full sun and shelter from strong winds.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells. Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune occasionally to encourage bushy growth. Harvest leaves as needed for cooking.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy soil, neglecting to mulch, not providing enough sunlight.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesSeed
Edible uses: The mapleleaf goosefoot is edible and its leaves and seeds can be consumed. The leaves are often eaten fresh in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Seeds can be harvested and ground into flour for baking. Both parts of the plant are typically enjoyed raw or lightly prepared.
Other uses:Dye
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
30 native · 0 introduced
Distribution
30 native · 0 introducedDistribution across1 continent· 30 native
Americas1 region
native (1)United States
Broader regions
native:Massachusetts, New York, Alberta, Arkansas, British Columbia, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Manitoba, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
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Companion planting
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 841bab9b-6de1-4dcb-bc99-530f8c9fc67e
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