Goosefoot
Chenopodium triandrum
Full sun and lean, free‑draining soil; tolerates coastal exposure; useful for native coastal meadows and restorations.
Description
Chenopodium triandrum, commonly known as Goosefoot or Saltbush, is a low-growing, sprawling perennial herb or subshrub, often forming dense mats. It is characterized by its small, fleshy, triangular to rhomboid-shaped leaves, which are typically green but can develop reddish or purplish tints in strong sun or cold. The leaves are often covered with a mealy (farinose) coating, particularly when young, an adaptation to coastal environments. Inconspicuous greenish flowers are borne in small clusters in the leaf axils, followed by tiny, black, seed-like fruits (achenes). This plant's robust, spreading habit and tolerance to harsh conditions make it a valuable component of coastal and disturbed ecosystems.
Quick Facts
Content for Chenopodium triandrum ( Chenopodium triandrum ).
| Scientific Name | Chenopodium triandrum |
|---|---|
| Height | Variable by habitat |
| Spread | Forms clumps or patches |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; free-draining soils |
| Light | Full sun |
| Frost Tolerance | High - tolerant of severe freezes |
| Salt Tolerance | Moderate to high (coastal species) |
| Growth Rate | Slow to moderate |
| Lifespan | Long-lived perennial |
Climate Suitability
Content for Chenopodium triandrum ( Chenopodium triandrum ).
| City | Climate Suitability |
|---|---|
| Whangārei | Suitable |
| Auckland | Suitable |
| Hamilton | Suitable |
| Tauranga | Suitable |
| Rotorua | Suitable |
| Gisborne | Suitable |
| New Plymouth | Suitable |
| Napier | Suitable |
| Whanganui | Suitable |
| Palmerston North | Suitable |
| Wellington | Suitable |
| Nelson | Suitable |
| Christchurch | Suitable |
| Dunedin | Suitable |
| Invercargill | Suitable |
Habitat
Natural Distribution
occurs in natural habitats characteristic of Aotearoa, forming part of distinctive plant communities where site stress and local disturbance shape vegetation patterns. It favours exposed slopes, screes or fellfields with thin, rapidly drained mineral soils, enduring intense radiation, wind and freeze-thaw cycles. On the coast it occupies sunny, wind‑prone sites with sandy or rocky substrates, where salt‑laden air and periodic drought limit competition. These preferences explain its patchy distribution and sensitivity to changes in hydrology, competition and disturbance regimes. Chenopodium triandrum
Conservation Status
Current Threats and Protection
are influenced by land use, browsing and weeds. Protecting intact habitat mosaics, reducing browser pressure, and managing invasive plants sustain recruitment. Where local stands are small or isolated, eco‑sourced augmentation and careful site stewardship help secure long‑term viability. Chenopodium triandrum Populations of
How to Grow
Cultivation Requirements
Provide free‑draining soils and high light appropriate to the species’ natural range. Use gritty, stony mixes and an open aspect with moving air; keep crowns high and dry, especially in winter. Choose warm, sunny sites with shelter from the fiercest onshore winds; avoid heavy, waterlogged soils.
Planting Guide
Best Planting Practices
Plant in the cool, moist months into weed‑free ground. Set plants slightly proud of the surrounding soil, water to settle, and mulch with coarse gravel or woodchips while keeping the stem base clear. Grouping two to three plants replicates natural patterns and improves establishment under local conditions.
Ecological Role
Environmental Benefits
contributes structure and seasonal resources where it grows, providing cover and habitat for invertebrates and, when flowering or fruiting, nectar, pollen or seed for fauna. By tolerating the stresses of its environment, it helps stabilise sites and enrich small‑scale habitat diversity. Chenopodium triandrum
Uses
Traditional and Modern Applications
Ideal for rock and gravel gardens that emulate alpine processes, or for specialised collections. Suited to sunny, maritime gardens with sandy or rocky soils where wind and salt are considerations.
Landscaping Uses
Garden Design Applications
Excellent for rock gardens, alpine collections, and naturalistic plantings. Best used in open, well-drained positions where its distinctive form can be appreciated. Combines well with other native alpine plants and provides year-round structure. Consider placement carefully due to sharp foliage - avoid high-traffic areas. Creates dramatic focal points in contemporary and native-themed garden designs.
Seasonal Care
Year-Round Maintenance
Spring management focuses on removing winter-damaged foliage and assessing drainage. Summer care emphasizes maintaining adequate moisture without waterlogging. Autumn preparation includes reducing irrigation and ensuring good air circulation. Winter protection may require covering in areas subject to excessive moisture. Year-round monitoring ensures early detection of problems and maintenance of optimal growing conditions.
Pruning
Pruning Techniques
Little pruning is required; remove dead or crossing material after flowering and avoid hard renovation cuts. Light tip‑pruning maintains compact form without compromising the plant’s natural character.
How to Grow Goosefoot
From Seed
Propagation of Chenopodium triandrum from seed is generally straightforward. Collect seeds from ripe fruits in late summer to autumn. These seeds typically do not require extensive pre-treatment, though a short period of cold stratification (4-6 weeks) can sometimes improve germination rates, especially for older seeds. Sow fresh seeds thinly onto a well-draining seed-raising mix, lightly covering them with fine sand or grit. Maintain consistent moisture and provide bright, indirect light. Germination usually occurs within 2-4 weeks at temperatures around 15-20°C (60-68°F). Once seedlings are large enough to handle, prick them out into individual pots and grow them on in a bright, airy location until robust enough for planting out.
From Cuttings
Chenopodium triandrum can also be readily propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings. Take cuttings about 8-12 cm long from healthy, non-flowering stems in spring or early summer. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in a rooting hormone to encourage faster root development. Insert the cuttings into a free-draining mix of sand and perlite. Maintain high humidity around the cuttings, either by placing them in a propagation chamber or covering them with a plastic bag, and ensure consistent moisture in the rooting medium. Keep in a warm, bright location out of direct sunlight. Roots typically form within 4-8 weeks. Once a good root system has developed, pot the cuttings into individual containers and grow them on before transplanting.
General Cultivation
Goosefoot (Chenopodium triandrum) is a hardy and versatile plant well-suited to open, sunny sites with lean, free-draining soils, characteristic of its natural coastal habitat. It thrives in sandy or stony substrates and tolerates coastal exposure, including salt-laden air and periodic drought, making it an excellent choice for native coastal meadows and restoration projects. Full sun and good air circulation are essential; avoid heavy, waterlogged soils which can lead to root rot, especially in winter. Water requirements are low once established, but occasional watering during prolonged dry spells can be beneficial. It is tolerant of severe freezes. Plant in the cool, moist months into weed-free ground. Set plants slightly proud of the surrounding soil, water to settle, and mulch with coarse gravel or woodchips while keeping the stem base clear. Minimal pruning is required, primarily for shaping or removing any dead or straggly growth.
Pests and Diseases
Common Problems and Solutions
Good siting prevents most problems-sharp drainage and appropriate exposure are key. Crown and root rots arise if winter wet persists; keep crowns elevated and water moving. Protect young plants from browsing where deer, goats or rabbits are present.
Cultural Significance
Chenopodium triandrum holds cultural significance as an edible native plant, traditionally gathered by Māori. Its leaves, rich in vitamins and minerals, were consumed as a green vegetable. This species, like other native edibles, contributed to a balanced traditional diet and embodies the deep connection between Māori and their natural environment, showcasing sustainable resource use.
Bonus Tip
Expert Growing Advice
Chenopodium triandrum thrives in open, sunny sites with free-draining sandy or stony soils. Its natural tolerance to coastal exposure makes it an ideal choice for challenging seaside gardens or restoration projects, where its low-growing, spreading habit helps stabilize loose ground effectively.
