Red Goosefoot
oxybasis rubra
Also known as: ["Red Goosefoot","Red Orache","Red Pigweed"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant with reddish stems and leaves, native to North America and parts of Europe.
Benefits & Perks
["wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Oxybasis |
| Botanical Name: | Oxybasis rubra |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in open, sunny area
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"0–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, sandy loam with organic matter; avoid heavy clay soils.
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 heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to intense light; protect from direct midday sun to prevent scorching; adjust placement based on indoor/outdoor conditions.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
very easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid sudden light changes.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries between waterings; avoid overwatering, especially in winter.
Soil
well-draining, sandy loam with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid compacted soil; check drainage before planting.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoid frost; reduce watering in cold periods.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; adjust care based on seasonal changes.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season, none in winter
Dilute fertilizer to prevent burn; fertilize only when actively growing; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or division; stem cuttings are more common for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (65–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix like perlite and peat moss or cactus mix.
Hormone
Optional but recommended for faster rooting.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 6–8 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, humidity dome.
Quick Tips
Use healthy parent plants; keep cuttings moist; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips or cut stems just above a leaf node; remove yellow or damaged leaves.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or leggy stems to encourage bushier growth; shape the plant for aesthetic appeal.
Tools
Clean pruning shears or scissors, gloves.
Checklist
Sanitize tools; prune dead/damaged growth; shape as desired; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, when the plant is entering active growth.
Pot Size
One size larger pot (1–2 inches wider in diameter).
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots outgrow the pot; beneficial for rejuvenation.
Checklist
Check root bound status; prepare new pot; use fresh soil; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; adjust for season.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure even moisture without waterlogging; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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; ensure aeration with coarse materials.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; leaf drop in sudden temperature shifts.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and increases susceptibility to root rot due to reduced water uptake.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; insulate pots; reduce watering; use a heat mat if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade; increase humidity; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging; use reflective surfaces to reduce heat absorption.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Check growth phase; dilute fertilizer; apply to moist soil; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicOxybasis rubra is not considered toxic to cats. The plant does not contain known toxic substances harmful to felines. As with any non-food item, ingestion in large quantities may cause mild gastrointestinal distress.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicOxybasis rubra is not considered toxic to dogs. The plant lacks significant toxic compounds that would cause adverse effects in canines. However, ingestion of large quantities may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to the plant's fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicOxybasis rubra, commonly known as red goosefoot, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, like many leafy greens, it may contain oxalates in small amounts, which can contribute to kidney stones if consumed excessively over time. The plant does not produce any known toxic compounds that would cause acute poisoning.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Oxybasis rubra edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and stems are edible and can be used in salads or cooked like spinach.
Q: Does Oxybasis rubra attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators.
Q: Is Oxybasis rubra invasive?
A: It can be considered invasive in some regions due to its rapid growth and seed production.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | very easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
