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IIIFolio · plant profile№ B59Bedible
Data provenancePermapeopleTreflePFAFPOWOreviewed 18 Oct 2026methodology → read

Crowfoot

Erodium crinitum
Educational content — not medical, botanical, or professional advice. Plant identification, safety, and edibility depend on local conditions, cultivars, and correct identification. Consult a qualified botanist or forager before consuming or handling wild specimens. How we source & review →
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Erodium crinitum (Crowfoot) — botanical photograph
Pl. B59B — Erodium crinitum
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I

Overview

Crowfoot, scientifically known as Erodium crinitum, is an annual plant native to southeastern regions of Australia, including New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia. This plant thrives in a variety of soil types—light (sandy), medium, and heavy (clay)—and requires moist conditions with full sun exposure. Crowfoot is known for its edible roots, which can be eaten raw or cooked. To prepare, the roots are often boiled to soften them before consumption. The plant features finely divided leaves and small pink or white flowers, making it an ornamental addition to natural settings. While not medicinal, its introduction into Belgium and Japan highlights its adaptability and potential for cultivation in diverse environments. Crowfoot's distinctive features and edible roots make it a valuable resource for those seeking wild edibles.

Quick answers

What is Crowfoot?

Crowfoot, scientifically known as Erodium crinitum, is an annual plant native to southeastern regions of Australia, including New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia.

Growingconditions · propagation · uses
V

Cultivation

Crowfoot thrives in full sun and requires moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is an annual plant that grows well in temperate regions, native to areas including New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, and Western Australia. Propagate via seeds for best results. Ensure the soil remains consistently moist to support healthy growth and harvest the roots for edible use.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Life cycle
Annual
For first-time growers

How to grow Crowfoot for the first time

8steps

Start with Crowfoot as an easy annual plant, focusing on basic care and harvesting roots.

  1. 1

    What you'll need

    Crowfoot seeds or young plants, a small trowel, and a watering can.

  2. 2

    Best time to plant

    Plant Crowfoot in spring when the soil is moist and warm.

  3. 3

    Soil and container prep

    Choose a location with full sun. Prepare light, medium, or heavy soil by mixing in compost if needed.

  4. 4

    Sowing or transplanting

    Direct sow seeds 1/4 inch deep or transplant young plants into the garden bed.

  5. 5

    First two weeks

    Water regularly to keep the soil moist. Thin seedlings to about 6 inches apart as they grow.

  6. 6

    Ongoing care

    Continue regular watering and thinning if necessary. Monitor for pests like aphids.

  7. 7

    Harvest or pruning

    Prune dead leaves and stems to encourage new growth, but wait until after the first frost to harvest roots.

  8. 8

    Common mistakes

    Overwatering, planting in poor soil, neglecting to thin seedlings.

VI

Edible & utility

Edible parts:Root
Edible uses: The roots of Crowfoot (Erodium crinitum) are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are often prepared by boiling to soften them before consumption. Skip the detailed recipe; focus on these basic preparation methods.
Contextrange · companions · related
VII

Distribution

6 native · 2 introduced
Distribution across2 continents· 6 native· 2 introduced
Europe1 region
introduced (1)Belgium
Asia1 region
introduced (1)Japan
Broader regions
native:New South Wales, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, Victoria, Western Australia
IX

Specimen gallery

1 image
Erodium crinitum (Crowfoot) — botanical photograph
Crowfoot (Erodium crinitum)
XI

Explore further

XII

About this entry

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