Nettle-leaved goosefoot, Australian spinach, Green fat-hen, Wall goosefoot
Chenopodium murale
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
The young leaves are edible raw or cooked, but should be used in moderation due to oxalic acid content. It can be used as a green manure. The seeds are also edible, but quite small and tedious to harvest. Chickens and other poultry enjoy consuming it.
Permapeople description
Chenopodium murale is a common weed found worldwide. It is characterized by its nettle-like leaves and small green flowers.
Botanical description
Chenopodium murale is an annual herbaceous plant in the family Amaranthaceae. It grows to a height of 20-80 cm. The stems are erect, branched, and often reddish. The leaves are alternate, rhomboid-ovate, coarsely toothed, and dull green. The flowers are small, green, and clustered in dense panicles in the leaf axils. The seeds are small, black, and lens-shaped. It is native to Europe and Asia, but now naturalized worldwide. It thrives in disturbed ground, waste areas, and gardens.
Companion planting
Generally considered a weed, so companion planting isn't a primary concern. It might compete with some crops for nutrients, but is not known to have strong allelopathic effects on other plants.
Propagation methods
Propagation is primarily by seed. Seeds can be sown directly in the ground in spring or autumn. Self-seeding is common.
History and traditions
Historically, Chenopodium murale has been used as a famine food in various cultures. Some traditional medicine systems have employed it for its purported medicinal properties, but caution is advised due to the presence of oxalic acid.
Usage calendar
Seeds can be sown in spring or autumn. Leaves can be harvested throughout the growing season. Flowering occurs in summer and autumn.