Chenopodium ficifolium
Chenopodium ficifolium · Amaranthaceae
The gardener's calendar
Ideal time to plant chenopodium ficifolium: set it out when the soil is neither frozen nor waterlogged, and water generously as it establishes.
ID card
- Family
- Amaranthaceae
- Type
- Annual herbaceous plant
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Adult size
- 30 to 80 cm in height
- Growth
- Fast
- Hardiness
- Tender, frost-sensitive
- Origin
- Eurasia
- Soil
- Undemanding, tolerates poor and disturbed soils
Care
Light
Place this plant in full sun or partial shade to encourage vigorous growth. It tolerates well-lit, open areas. Sunny exposure strengthens the coloration and vitality of the foliage.
Watering
Keep the soil moderately moist during the growing season, especially in dry periods. Water regularly but avoid waterlogging which can promote root rot. In autumn, gradually reduce watering.
Soil
Chenopodium ficifolium thrives in well-drained, undemanding soil, even if poor or slightly disturbed. It tolerates light, sandy or loamy soils well. Simply avoid root suffocation by ensuring excellent drainage.
Fertilizing
This herbaceous plant is not demanding and requires only light balanced fertilizer in spring. Soil enriched with organic matter is generally sufficient for growth. Avoid excess feeding which could promote unbalanced development.
Pruning
No strict pruning necessary. Remove faded flowers if you wish to prolong the vegetative phase. Let the plant develop freely or limit its height by pinching out the shoot tips in spring.
Diseases and pests
Generally resistant to disease if watering is moderate. Watch for scale insects or aphids in case of water stress. Excess humidity can promote rot, so maintaining good air circulation is recommended.
Did you know?
Chenopodium ficifolium, whose name literally means 'fig-like leaves,' belongs to the large family of goosefoots that long served as forgotten vegetables in Europe. Its triangular leaves indeed resemble those of the fig tree, hence its specific epithet 'ficifolium.' This cosmopolitan plant easily colonizes disturbed spaces and ruins, testament to its remarkable adaptability and role as an ecological 'pioneer.'
Where to buy it
Plant in spring or early autumn, avoiding spells of intense heat. Pick a plant with healthy foliage and roots that are not exposed. Best time: March, April, May, September.
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Tips generated and checked by Viridia — adapt them to your local climate.