Species Large Calyx Goosefoot
lime fruits and foliage

Large Calyx Goosefoot

Chenopodium berlandieri var. macrocalycium

Also Known As - Pitseed Goosefoot
Large Calyx Goosefoot, or Chenopodium berlandieri var. macrocalycium, is a perennial plant that can be found growing in dry, sunny areas of North America. Its bright green leaves are shaped like geese feet, earning its common name. The flowers are greenish-pink and are held upright by long, erect stems. The showy inflorescence, which attracts hummingbirds, consists of a large calyx surrounding the female pistils. Large Calyx Goosefoot's fruit is edible and has a sweet taste, although its growth habit makes harvesting difficult. It can be a challenge to garden with, as it obtains a large footprint in the landscape due to its sprawling, spreading stems.

Watering:

Frequent

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Cutting,Division,Layering Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,purple,gray,gray

Growth Rate:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Thorny:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The Large Calyx Goosefoot should be watered once per week, using approximately 1 to 2 inches of water. The soil should be allowed to dry out between watering. During very hot weather, it may be necessary to water once or twice per week. It is important to make sure that the soil is completely saturated with water, and that the water is able to reach the lower parts of the soil. Be careful not to overwater the plant, as this can cause root rot and other problems.

sunlight

Large Calyx Goosefoot enjoys full sunlight for most of the day and slightly better in the morning. It should be located in a south-facing location where it will receive direct sunlight from about 9 am to 3 pm and then in the afternoon indirect light for the remaining time. Since it is a heat tolerant variety, it should be placed in a high sunny location that receives full sun (ideally 8 to 10 hours of direct sun), however it can also grow in partial sun as well. The plant will need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight to function normally and remain vigorous.

pruning

Large Calyx Goosefoot is a low-growing perennial shrub that can grow up to 1 m in height. Pruning of this plant species should be done lightly and infrequently throughout the year, primarily to maintain shape, form, and health. Pruning should occur in late winter to early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, diseased and crossing branches, as well as prune out old wood. Deadheading, or removing faded flowers, may also help to keep the plant more attractive. Excessive pruning should be avoided, as it may reduce flowering and fruit production.