SafePlants

Chenopodium neomexicanum: New Mexico Goosefoot

Chenopodium neomexicanum, commonly known as New Mexico goosefoot, is a forb/herb (a non-woody plant) belonging to the Goosefoot Family (Chenopodiaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• Some sources indicate that *Chenopodium leptophyllum* (Narrow-Leaf Goosefoot) and *Chenopodium murale* (Nettle-Leaf Goosefoot), both related to New Mexico Goosefoot, may have allergenic properties. It's worth considering whether *Chenopodium neomexicanum* might elicit similar reactions.

Considerations for Children

• The text mentions that young and tender *Chenopodium* plants are collected as food by some indigenous peoples. It's important to be certain of plant identification before consumption.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chenopodium neomexicanum Standl.
• Family: Chenopodiaceae (Goosefoot Family)
• Synonyms/Variations: Chenopodium neomexicanum var. neomexicanum, Ch. neomexicanum Standley
• Common Names: New Mexico goosefoot, goosefoot, choal, chual, lamb's quarters, melde, fat-hen. Note that some of the common names listed (lamb's quarters, melde, fat-hen, goosefoot) are also applied to other *Chenopodium* species.

Distribution and Habitat

• Primarily found in the American Southwest, including New Mexico, southern Colorado, and parts of Arizona.
• Also reported in western North Dakota, Kansas, and southern California.
• Prefers habitats such as meadows and wetlands.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

• Described as a forb/herb (a non-woody plant).
• An annual species.

Ecological Role

• Some *Chenopodium* species are considered weedy.

Interactions with Other Organisms

• Mentioned alongside asters in meadows, suggesting it coexists with other flowering plants.

Traditional Uses

• The young and tender plants are gathered as food by some indigenous peoples of New Mexico and Arizona, including the Navajo and Pueblo Indians.
• Other species of *Chenopodium* have been used as food by the Cahuilla and Yuman peoples.

Quirky Facts

• The common name "goosefoot" comes from the shape of the leaves.

Further Information

• Dave's Garden
• Discover Life
• Idaho Fish and Wildlife Information System
• Dale A. Zimmerman Herbarium - Western New Mexico University
• University of New Mexico Bulletin