Salsify Goosefoot
chenopodium murale
Also known as: ["Narrowleaf Goosefoot","Wall Goosefoot"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant in the family Amaranthaceae, native to Europe and naturalized in many regions.
Benefits & Perks
["drought tolerant","shade tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Chenopodium |
| Botanical Name: | Chenopodium murale |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden bed in full sun
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–10"}
- Misting: rarely required
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: very low
- Toughness Level: very high
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, typically every 2–3 months or after flowering.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid removing more than one-third of the plant at once.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun (6–8 hours/day); tolerates partial shade but may become leggy.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense sun; protect from harsh midday sun in summer; ensure bright light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; place near south-facing window.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-drained, moderately fertile soil
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.0).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; top-dress with compost annually.
Temperature
Warm conditions (65–85°F); tolerates mild frost but thrives in heat.
Avoid drafts; maintain consistent warmth; protect from extreme fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season
Fertilize less in winter; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; use organic options for gentle feeding.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in hormone (optional).
- Plant in medium.
- Keep moist.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when growth is active.
Environment
Warm, humid, and bright indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting.
Timeline
Roots in 2–4 weeks; establish in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruners, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent stems; maintain humidity with a plastic bag; keep out of direct sun.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or overgrown stems to encourage bushier growth and air circulation.
Tools
Clean pruners or scissors, disinfectant.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; cut at an angle; remove dead growth; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (e.g., +2 inches in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; promotes fresh soil and growth.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; trim roots; add fresh soil; water.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid foliage wetting.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even saturation without pooling.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop.
Cold Stress
Growth slows, leaves may turn purple or brown; susceptible to frost damage.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat; cover outdoors if frost is expected.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become sparse.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering; use mulch to retain moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check season; dilute fertilizer; apply to soil; avoid foliage contact.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid winter feeding.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to mild toxicity from Chenopodium murale when consumed in large amounts. The plant's oxalates and nitrates can lead to gastrointestinal upset and potential metabolic disturbances.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild toxicity from ingesting large amounts of Chenopodium murale due to its oxalate and nitrate content. These compounds can disrupt normal physiological processes, particularly affecting the digestive and urinary systems.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Slightly ToxicChenopodium murale contains oxalates and nitrates which can cause mild to moderate toxicity when consumed in significant amounts. The oxalates can bind with calcium, leading to potential kidney issues, while high nitrate levels may contribute to methemoglobinemia.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chenopodium murale edible?
A: Its edibility is uncertain; it is not commonly consumed and may pose risks.
Q: Does Chenopodium murale attract wildlife?
A: It may attract some pollinators, but it is not a primary wildlife attractant.
Q: How does Chenopodium murale spread?
A: It spreads via seeds, often becoming a persistent weed in disturbed soils.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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