Winged Pigweed

Winged Pigweed (Cycloloma atriplicifolium) is an annual forb or herb native to the central and western United States, as well as parts of Mexico and Canada, including Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Manitoba, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Saskatchewan, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. This plant thrives in a variety of habitats, often found in dry to moist conditions with light (sandy) to medium soil, and can grow up to 0.8 meters tall in full sun or partial shade. Its distinctive feature is the presence of wings on the seed pods, which aids in dispersal by wind. The seeds of Winged Pigweed are edible and can be harvested and consumed raw or cooked, often prepared by roasting or boiling to enhance their flavor and nutritional value. This plant is native to a wide range of regions, making it adaptable across its native range, and has been introduced to additional areas such as Alabama, Albania, Argentina, California, Connecticut, France, Hungary, Iowa, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Quebec, South Carolina, Victoria, Virginia, and West Virginia. While primarily known for its edible seeds, Winged Pigweed also has potential for dye utility.