Lambsquarters Chenopodium album

Goosefoot is a highly adaptable and nutritious summer annual edible in the Amaranthaceae (buckwheat) family. This common name comes from the shape of the leaves resembling a goose's foot. In its native habitat of Europe and Asia it is found growing in waste sites, farm land, or riparian wetland habitats and is often one of the first weeds to appear on newly disturbed soils.  

This plant prefers full sun and moist fertile loamy soils though it tolerates partial shade and a range of soil types. Plants grown in more fertile soils have a more palatable taste and are a nutritious weed if enjoyed in moderation. Each plant produces large amounts of seed that allow this plant to become aggressive in the landscape. Pulling up seedlings before they set seed or mowing over plants before they produce seed are two management options.

Goosefoot grows rapidly, spreading greenish-blue to gray leaves anywhere from 4 inches to 6 feet tall and 4 to 12 inches wide, depending on the nutrient level of the soil. It is covered with soft wooly hairs so it has a velvety feel. The flowers are not very showy and are pollinated by the wind. 

Though edible, the plant’s parts are not particularly palatable and are mildly toxic when consumed raw; cook, steam, and/or freeze before consuming. Better yet, plant it in naturalized areas to feed wildlife. It attracts butterflies, moths, small mammals, and songbirds.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: It can be quite weedy in disturbed areas and the seeds can remain viable in the soil for many years.  Pulling up seedlings before they set seed or mowing over plants before they produce seed are two management options.  See Clemson's publication on broadleaf weeds.