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Description
Chenopodium Vulvaria, also known as Stinking Goosefoot or Stinking Chamomile, is a species of annual herbaceous plant that belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. It is native to Europe, but it is now widely distributed throughout the world. The plant has a strong odor that smells like rotten fish, which is why it is commonly referred to as Stinking Goosefoot. The plant can grow up to 80 cm in height and has triangular or diamond-shaped leaves that are toothed and slightly hairy. It produces small flowers that are greenish-white in color and bloom from July to September.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Chenopodium |
Appearance
The leaves of Chenopodium Vulvaria are diamond or triangular-shaped, slightly hairy, and toothed. The plant can grow up to 80 cm in height, and it produces small, greenish-white flowers that bloom from July to September. The plant has a strong odor that smells like rotten fish, which is why it is commonly referred to as Stinking Goosefoot. The plant’s stems are green or reddish-brown in color and have a grooved surface. The plant’s seeds are small and black.
Care Guide
Chenopodium Vulvaria is an easy plant to care for and can be grown in most garden conditions. The following care guide will help you grow healthy and beautiful Chenopodium Vulvaria plants:
- Water: Chenopodium Vulvaria prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water the plant deeply once a week during the growing season.
- Fertilization: Chenopodium Vulvaria does not require much fertilization. Apply a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Chenopodium Vulvaria prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Chenopodium Vulvaria prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.
- Hardiness Zones: Chenopodium Vulvaria can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Chenopodium Vulvaria is generally not susceptible to many pests or diseases. However, it can be affected by the following:
- Aphids: These pests can suck the sap from the plant’s leaves and cause them to wilt. Use an insecticidal soap to control aphids.
- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a powdery white coating to form on the plant’s leaves. Use a fungicide to control powdery mildew.
- Root Rot: This disease can cause the plant’s roots to rot and ultimately kill the plant. Avoid overwatering and provide well-drained soil to prevent root rot.
Habitat
Chenopodium Vulvaria is native to Europe but can now be found throughout the world. It prefers to grow in disturbed areas such as roadsides, fields, and waste places. It can grow in a wide range of soil types and can tolerate some drought.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Chenopodium Vulvaria poisonous?
A: Chenopodium Vulvaria is not poisonous, but it can cause skin irritation in some people.
Q: Can Chenopodium Vulvaria be used for medicinal purposes?
A: Chenopodium Vulvaria has been used in traditional medicine for its diuretic and laxative properties, but its effectiveness has not been scientifically proven.
Q: How can I control the strong odor of Chenopodium Vulvaria?
A: The strong odor of Chenopodium Vulvaria can be controlled by removing the plant or using an air freshener or odor-neutralizing spray.
Q: Can Chenopodium Vulvaria be grown indoors?
A: Chenopodium Vulvaria can be grown indoors if provided with sufficient sunlight and well-drained soil.
Related Plants
- Chenopodium album
- Chenopodium quinoa
- Chenopodium berlandieri
References
- “Chenopodium Vulvaria L.” Plants of the World Online, Kew Science.
- “Stinking Goosefoot.” Missouri Botanical Garden.
- “Chenopodium Vulvaria.” Gardening Know How.
