chenopods

Chenopods are plants traditionally classified in the Chenopodiaceae, commonly known as the goosefoot family. In modern systems these plants are treated as the Chenopodioideae subfamily within Amaranthaceae. The group includes mostly herbaceous annuals and perennials, with a few shrubs or suffrutescents, many of which are adapted to dry or saline environments.

Morphology and habit vary, but chenopods typically have simple leaves, often with irregular shapes, and young parts may carry a mealy or farinose coating. Flowers are small and inconspicuous, usually arranged in dense inflorescences and largely wind-pollinated. The plants often tolerate harsh soils and drought; several species accumulate salts or other minerals in their tissues, aiding their survival in salty habitats.

Geographic distribution covers temperate to subtropical regions worldwide. Chenopods are especially common in steppes, deserts, salt marshes, and coastal dunes, where their salinity and drought tolerance give them ecological prominence.

Notable genera include Chenopodium (goosefoots), which includes species such as Chenopodium quinoa (quinoa) and Chenopodium album (lamb’s quarters); Atriplex (saltbush); Salicornia (glasswort); and Suaeda. Quinoa seeds are a significant grain crop, and some chenopods provide leafy greens or forage. They also play roles in ecological restoration on disturbed or saline soils.

Taxonomic revisions in recent decades have moved Chenopodiaceae into Amaranthaceae, but the common name chenopods remains in use to describe these related plants. They are valued for food, forage, and their adaptations to challenging growing conditions.