SafePlants

Fremont's Goosefoot (Chenopodium fremontii)

Chenopodium fremontii, commonly known as Fremont's goosefoot, is a flowering plant belonging to the amaranth family (Amaranthaceae).

Considerations for Pets

• This plant is an annual that grows up to 0.6 meters (2 feet). Small parts may present a choking hazard.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

• Scientific Name: Chenopodium fremontii S. Watson
• Common Names: Fremont's goosefoot, Fremont Goosefoot, Pringle's Goosefoot
• Family: Amaranthaceae (Amaranth or Pigweed Family)

Description

• Chenopodium fremontii is an annual plant, identified as a forb/herb (a non-woody plant that is not a grass).
• It grows to a height of about 10-50 cm tall, and is usually branched.
• The flowers are hermaphrodite, possessing both male and female parts.
• Seeds ripen from September to November.

Distribution and Habitat

• Observed on sandy beaches along the Columbia River shore.
• Widespread in disturbed areas.
• Found in grasslands.
• Specific locations mentioned include Deep Creek Mountains, North of Red Cedar Creek.

Ecological Role

• Fremont's goosefoot is a native species.
• It is described as being more common than Chenopodium album (Lambsquarters) in disturbed areas.

Traditional Uses

• Extensively foraged as a wild plant by prehistoric people.
• Many Native American tribes utilize this plant.

Similar Species

• Can be difficult to distinguish from Chenopodium album (Lambsquarters).

Further Resources

• USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database
• Flora of North America
• ABMI species summary for Chenopodium fremontii

Alternative Scientific Names and Subspecies:

• Chenopodium fremontii S. Watson var. fremontii
• Synonyms and related species mentioned: Chenopodium incanum, Chenopodium desiccatum, Chenopodium album, Chenopodium berlandieri, Chenopodium giganteum