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California goosefoot
Scientific Name: Chenopodium californicum
Family: Chenopodiaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Forb/herb
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
California Goosefoot (Blitum californicum)
California Goosefoot, scientifically known as Blitum californicum, is a flowering plant with a rich history and diverse uses. It is also commonly referred to by its former scientific name, Chenopodium californicum, and other names such as California Pigweed and Soaproot.
Considerations for Pets and Children
- Small Parts: This plant produces flowers in spherical clusters that later develop reddish seed coverings. These small parts could be a choking hazard, particularly for young children or pets.
- Traditional Uses: The plant has historical uses related to soap production, suggesting the presence of compounds that may cause irritation if ingested or come into contact with skin.
Taxonomy and Nomenclature
- Scientific Name: Blitum californicum (Syn. Chenopodium californicum)
- Common Names: California Goosefoot, California Pigweed, Soaproot, Indian Lettuce, Forest Goosefoot, Dark Green Goosefoot, Berlandier's Goosefoot, Pit Seed Goosefoot, Goosefoot, Lamb's Quarters, Wild Spinach, Fat-hen
- Family: Amaranthaceae (formerly Chenopodiaceae, the Goosefoot family)
Distribution and Habitat
- Native to California and western North America.
- Found in a variety of habitats, ranging from deserts to mountains, typically at elevations from 1,000 to 5,000 feet.
Morphology and Growth Habits
- Annual herb, typically growing up to 0.6 meters (2 feet) tall.
- Flowering period is from July to October, with seeds ripening from August to October.
- Some references suggest it can also grow as a perennial herb with a thick taproot.
Ecological Role
- Nettleleaf goosefoot, a relative, is noted as a common summer annual in California.
Traditional Uses
- Historically, various groups in California used Chenopodium californicum as a soap substitute.
- The Cahuilla people used a decoction of the entire plant for stomach disorders.
Additional Information
- California Goosefoot is considered a member of the Chenopodium genus, which includes other edible plants like Lamb's Quarters.
Resources and Further Information
- Consortium of California Herbaria
- UCSC Natural Reserves
- CalPhotos (California Academy of Sciences)
- Discover Life
- EOL (Encyclopedia of Life)