Amaranthaceae
Goosefoot (Chenopodium Genus)
Chenopodium
Hardy, fast-growing plants. Prefer full sun, well-drained soil, and moderate watering. Highly drought-tolerant and adaptable to poor soils.
Every 7 days
Bright indirect
-5° - 35°C
30% - 70%
Categories
What is Goosefoot?
Goosefoot (Chenopodium) is a easy-care plant from the Amaranthaceae family. Chenopodium is a large genus of annual herbaceous plants in the family Amaranthaceae, found across temperate and tropical regions worldwide. It includes well-known species such as quinoa (C. quinoa), lambsquarters (C. album), and epazote (C. ambrosioides), valued for their culinary and medicinal pro...
Goosefoot grows up to 2.0m, with spread of 60cm, watering every 7 days, -5°C – 35°C, 30–70% humidity. It is not suitable for indoor environments and safe for pets.
Unlike many tropical plants, Goosefoot tolerates watering mistakes. Best for beginners. Unlike many popular species, Goosefoot is safe to keep around pets.
How to Care for Goosefoot?
TLDR: Goosefoot needs Bright indirect, watering every 7 days, and temperatures between -5-35°C with 30-70% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Goosefoot?
Water every 7 days. Drought-tolerant; avoid waterlogged soil.
How Much Light Does Goosefoot Need?
Requires full sun (6–8 hours daily). Can tolerate light partial shade.
What Is the Best Soil for Goosefoot?
Prefers loamy, well-drained soil with pH 6.0–8.0. Adapts well to poor or disturbed soils.
What Pot Should You Use for Goosefoot?
Outdoor bed or large container with good drainage
What Is Goosefoot and Where Does It Come From?
Chenopodium is a large genus of annual herbaceous plants in the family Amaranthaceae, found across temperate and tropical regions worldwide. It includes well-known species such as quinoa (C. quinoa), lambsquarters (C. album), and epazote (C. ambrosioides), valued for their culinary and medicinal properties.
How Big Does Goosefoot Grow?
TLDR: Goosefoot can reach up to 2.0m tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
2.0m
Spread
60cm
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Deciduous
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Edible
Can be consumed
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Medicinal Uses
- antiparasitic
- digestive aid
- anti-inflammatory
Culinary Uses
- leaves cooked like spinach
- seeds as grain (quinoa)
- leaf tea
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
What Diseases Commonly Affect Goosefoot?
TLDR: Goosefoot is susceptible to 8 known diseases. Monitor regularly for early detection.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew is a common fungal disease caused by various fungi species including Erysiphe, Podosphaera, Oïdium, and Leveillula. It affects over 10,000 plant species worldwide. The disease thrives in warm, dry climates with high humidity and appears as a distinctive white powdery coating on plant surfaces.
Root Rot
Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.
Damping Off
Damping off is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects seeds and young seedlings, causing rotting of stem and root tissues at and below the soil line. It is caused by several fungi including Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, and Phytophthora. The disease thrives in cold, wet conditions with poor air circulation.
Leaf Spot
Leaf spot is a common fungal disease caused by various pathogens including Alternaria, Ascochyta, Colletotrichum, Septoria, and Venturia. It primarily affects leaves, causing discolored spots that can lead to premature leaf drop if left untreated.
Fun Facts
Quinoa was a sacred food of the Incas for over 5,000 years.
Lambsquarters (C. album) is considered a weed in many countries, but is edible and nutritious.
Some species accumulate calcium oxalate, making them mildly toxic in large quantities.
Frequently asked questions
Is Chenopodium the same as quinoa?
Are Chenopodium leaves edible?
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peace Lily | Easy | Low light | 4d | ⚠️ |
| Swiss Cheese Plant | Easy | Partial shade | 10d | ⚠️ |
| Golden Pothos | Easy | Low light | 8d | ⚠️ |
| ZZ Plant | Easy | Low light | 18d | ⚠️ |