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Goosefoot Leaves Red Underneath?

15 years ago

Every reference I have seen to goosefoot - specifically lambsquarters (Chenopodium album) - refers to the underside of the leaves being "whitish".

I have many plants in my garden that appear to be lambsquarters. The leaf shape is distinct, isn't it? Lobed except near the tip? I have field guides and have checked some Web sources and the leaf shape looks like a match.

However, when the leaf is turned over to expose the underside, "whitish" is not the first word that comes to mind. "Red" is. Maybe a whitish haze over the red, but most definitely, these leaves are green on top and red underneath.

It is early in the season (July 4, 2008). Perhaps this is a feature that fades with maturity? Am I looking at Lambsquarters or something else?

Comments (2)

dbs_illinois_4
15 years ago
I have seen a LOT of Lambsquarters in my yard (I finally started eating them and they are way better than spinach!) and yes, I frequently see a dark red on leaves, ussually toward the stem, and the stems a deep maroon. As I recall, they are usually the smaller plants, so you are probably right about the maturity.
dbs_illinois_4
15 years ago
...it's NOT native, just in case you posted here because you thought it was. A plant that makes itself at home wherever it goes!
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