Contents
Description
Chenopodium Strictum, commonly known as the upright goosefoot, is a herbaceous annual plant that belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. It is a native plant of North America and can be found in various habitats such as fields, waste areas, and disturbed sites.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Chenopodium |
Appearance
The upright goosefoot can grow up to 2 meters tall and has a branching stem with a reddish tinge. The leaves are alternate, simple, and ovate to lanceolate in shape. They are 2-15 cm long and 1-10 cm wide, with a toothed margin and a pointed tip. The flowers are small and inconspicuous, and the fruit is a small, round, and flattened seed.
Care Guide
The upright goosefoot is a hardy plant that requires minimal care. It grows best in well-drained soil and full sun exposure. It can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions, but regular watering and fertilization can enhance its growth. The plant can grow in USDA hardiness zones 3-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
The upright goosefoot is not prone to serious pest or disease problems. However, it may be susceptible to leaf miners, flea beetles, and aphids. These pests can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil. The plant may also be affected by fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or rust. These diseases can be prevented by maintaining good air circulation and avoiding overhead watering.
Habitat
The upright goosefoot can be found in various habitats such as fields, waste areas, and disturbed sites. It can grow in a wide range of soil types and tolerates drought and poor soil conditions. It is a common weed in agricultural fields and can compete with crops for nutrients and resources.
Question and Answer
Q: Is the upright goosefoot a perennial plant?
A: No, the upright goosefoot is an annual plant.
Q: Can the plant grow in shade?
A: The upright goosefoot prefers full sun exposure but can tolerate some shade.
Q: Does the plant have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, the plant has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties, including as a diuretic and a treatment for digestive problems.
Q: Is the upright goosefoot edible?
A: Yes, the plant is edible, and the young leaves and shoots can be cooked and eaten as a vegetable.
Related Plants
- Chenopodium album (Common lambsquarters)
- Chenopodium berlandieri (Pitseed goosefoot)
- Chenopodium quinoa (Quinoa)
- Chenopodium giganteum (Tree spinach)
References
- USDA Plants Database. (n.d.). Chenopodium strictum Roth. Retrieved from https://plants.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=CHST2
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Chenopodium strictum. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277633&isprofile=0
- Wikipedia. (2021, August 30). Chenopodium strictum. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chenopodium_strictum
