Green crumbweed

Chenopodium carinatum, commonly known as keeled goosefoot, is an annual plant belonging to the Amaranthaceae family. It is native to Europe and Asia but has become widely distributed in many parts of the world. Here's an overview:

Botanical Description:

1. Growth Form:

   • Keeled goosefoot is an annual herbaceous plant.

2. Height:

   • It typically grows to a height of about 20 to 100 centimeters (8 to 39 inches).

3. Leaves:

   • The leaves are simple, alternate, and often have a triangular to diamond-shaped appearance. They may be toothed along the margins.

4. Stems:

   • The stems are erect and may have a reddish tint.

5. Flowers:

   • The flowers are small and greenish, arranged in inconspicuous clusters.

6. Fruit:

   • The fruit is a small, round seed enclosed in a papery utricle.

Identification Tips:

• Triangular Leaves:

  • The leaves often have a distinctive triangular or diamond-shaped appearance.

• Toothed Margins:

  • Leaves may have toothed margins.

• Inconspicuous Flowers:

  • The flowers are not showy and are arranged in inconspicuous clusters.

Habitat:

• Distribution:

  • Native to Europe and Asia. It has been introduced and naturalized in various regions.

• Habitat:

  • Keeled goosefoot is commonly found in disturbed areas, agricultural fields, gardens, and along roadsides.

Uses:

• Edible Greens:
  • The young leaves of keeled goosefoot are edible and can be used as a leafy vegetable. They are consumed in some cultures.

Note:

• Similar Species:
  • The Chenopodium genus includes several species, and proper identification may require attention to specific characteristics.

Caution:

• Invasive Potential:
  • Keeled goosefoot can be weedy and may have the potential to become invasive in certain settings.