annual

Fig-Leaved Goosefoot

The Story

Plant Bio

Chenopodium ficifolium is an erect, slender annual herb native to temperate Eurasia and naturalized across parts of North America. It features distinct three-lobed leaves resembling those of a fig tree, which are dark green on top and covered in a pale, mealy dust underneath.

This species is distinguished by its deeply lobed, fig-like foliage and inconspicuous greenish-white flower clusters that bloom from summer into early fall. Unlike common lambsquarters, its lower leaves feature a prominent, outward-pointing lobe on each side near the leaf base.

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a unique, wild texture with its deeply lobed, fig-like leaves and dusty, pale undersides.

Serves as an easy-to-grow botanical subject for educational or wild-style plantings.

Attracts beneficial insects, hoverflies, and seed-eating birds to the garden.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Annual

Height

47"

Width

20"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Annual

Native To

Eurasia

Toxicity

Toxic if ingested in large quantities

Bloom period

Summer – Fall

In flower about 6 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun to light shade with moist, nutrient-rich soil.
Sow seeds directly onto the soil surface in spring once frost danger has passed.
Keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained until seedlings establish.
Monitor the plants in late summer and remove seed heads before they mature to control spreading.

Pro Tip

Pull or cut the plants down completely before the flowers drop seed to prevent aggressive self-sowing in subsequent seasons.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Grow in well-drained loamy or clay soils with a neutral to slightly acidic pH.
Provide consistent moisture to prevent stunted growth during dry spells.
Remove the entire plant before seed set if you want to limit its spread.

Don't

Do not overwater or plant in poorly drained areas where root rot can develop.
Do not apply supplemental fertilizer, as it thrives in standard garden soils without extra nutrients.
Do not consume raw foliage in large quantities due to the presence of oxalates and saponins.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Plant
Prune
Winter Prep

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Wild gardensFoliage accentsBotanical collections

Companion Plants

Atriplex hortensis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Fig-Leaved Goosefoot questions

What zones can Fig-Leaved Goosefoot grow in?

Fig-Leaved Goosefoot is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Fig-Leaved Goosefoot deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Fig-Leaved Goosefoot, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Fig-Leaved Goosefoot bloom?

Fig-Leaved Goosefoot typically blooms in summer through fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Fig-Leaved Goosefoot need full sun?

Fig-Leaved Goosefoot does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Fig-Leaved Goosefoot drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Fig-Leaved Goosefoot handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.