Chenopodium Incanum

Description

Chenopodium Incanum, also known as Inca goosefoot or cañihua, is a plant species native to the Andean region of South America. It belongs to the Chenopodiaceae family, which includes various edible plants such as spinach, beets, and quinoa.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

Chenopodium Incanum is a herbaceous plant that can grow up to 3 meters tall. Its leaves are alternate and lanceolate, with a length of up to 15 cm. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the fruits are small and black.

Care Guide

Chenopodium Incanum is a hardy plant that is relatively easy to care for. Here are some tips for its care:

• Water: Water the plant regularly, but avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
• Soil: Plant Chenopodium Incanum in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: This plant can tolerate full sun to partial shade.
• Hardiness Zones: Chenopodium Incanum is hardy in USDA zones 8-11.

Common Pests & Diseases

Chenopodium Incanum is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it can still be affected by some common problems:

• Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the leaves, causing them to wilt and turn yellow. Use insecticidal soap to control them.
• Leaf miners: These insects tunnel into the leaves, causing brown patches. Remove affected leaves and use insecticidal soap to prevent further damage.
• Powdery mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves. Use a fungicide to control it.
• Root rot: This can be caused by overwatering or poorly draining soil. Avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil is well-draining.

Habitat

Chenopodium Incanum is native to the Andean region of South America, where it grows at high elevations of up to 4,000 meters. It prefers well-draining soil and can tolerate cold temperatures and drought.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Chenopodium Incanum edible?

A: Yes, the leaves and seeds of this plant are edible and are used in traditional Andean cuisine.

Q: How do you propagate Chenopodium Incanum?

A: This plant can be propagated by seeds or cuttings.

Q: Does Chenopodium Incanum attract pollinators?

A: Yes, this plant can attract bees and other pollinators.

Q: Can Chenopodium Incanum be grown indoors?

A: It is possible to grow this plant indoors, but it will require bright light and good air circulation.

Related Plants

• Chenopodium quinoa
• Chenopodium album
• Chenopodium berlandieri
• Chenopodium giganteum

References

• “Chenopodium Incanum.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=287287.
• “Chenopodium Incanum.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science, powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:172523-1.
• “Inca Goosefoot.” Eat the Weeds and Other Things Too, eattheweeds.com/chenopodium-incanum-the-incan-goosefoot/.