Description

This member of the goosefoot sub-family grows in many plant communities, mainly in the coastal mountains but also the Channel Islands, deserts and transverse ranges. The sub-family includes the genus Atriplex, the saltbushes, and several other goosefoot species. The stems emerge from a stout caudex in late winter with numerous large deltate (triangular) leaves edged with broad teeth. The stems may grow along the ground or be somewhat upright. The stems are tipped by clusters of a fairly subtle flower in early spring. Once the seed develops, the plant will go dormant as the summer progresses. All above ground growth disappears. As the plant matures over the years, the stems become more numerous and longer. California goosefoot was widely used by California’s first inhabitants. Young leaves were cooked and eaten. The large caudex was dried and used as a soap. Plant this adaptable perennial among other evergreen plants in a dry bed, where it will add seasonal interest.