Chenopodium nitrariaceum

(F. Muell.) F. Muell. ex Benth

Branching goosefoot, Nitre Goosefoot

Amaranthaceae Edible: Seeds 156 iNaturalist observations

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Summary

Chenopodium nitrariaceum commonly known as the nitre goosefoot, is a flowering shrub in the family Amaranthaceae and is endemic to Australia. It is a spiny perennial with greyish leaves and small flowers.

Description

A spreading shrub. It grows 2-3 m high and spreads 2-4 m wide. The branches are slender and rigid. The small branches are hairy or spiny. The leaves are 2.5 cm long and taper to the base. The flowers are in small dense spikes. They are yellow or brown. They are at the ends of branches.

Edible Uses

The seeds are eaten.

Distribution

It grows in subtropical regions. It grows in dry areas and often on heavy clays.

Where It Grows

Australia*,

Cultivation

Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings.

Notes

There are about 100-150-250 Chenopodium species. They are mostly in temperate regions. Also put in the family Chenopodiaceae.

Synonyms

Chenopodium lycioides Gand.Rhagodia nitrariacea F. Muell.

References (7)

Cherikoff V. & Isaacs, J., The Bush Food Handbook. How to gather, grow, process and cook Australian Wild Foods. Ti Tree Press, Australia p 189, 194
Elliot, W.R., & Jones, D.L., 1984, Encyclopedia of Australian Plants suitable for cultivation. Vol 3. Lothian. p 24
Flora of Australia, Volume 4, Phytolaccaceae to Chenopodiaceae, Australian Government Publishing Service, Canberra (1984) p 146
Hall, N. et al, 1972, The Use of Trees and Shrubs in the Dry Country of Australia, AGPS, Canberra. p 288
Lazarides, M. & Hince, B., 1993, Handbook of Economic Plants of Australia, CSIRO. p 57

Show all 7 references

Morley, B.D., & Toelken, H.R., (Eds), 1983, Flowering Plants in Australia. Rigby. p 83
Paczkowska, G. & Chapman, A.R., 2000, The Western Australian Flora. A Descriptive Catalogue. Western Australian Herbarium. p 202