How to Grow and Care for Oxybasis

Oak-leaved goosefoot (Oxybasis glauca) is an herbaceous summer annual native to Europe and Asia, but also present in other parts of the world as a weed. Its leaves look like miniature versions of oak leaves. Oxybasis glauca contains saponins, which are mildly toxic. Because some other goosefoot species are edible, care should be taken not to mix them up.

Pigweed (*Oxybasis rubra*) is an annual herb with red-tinged leaves and fruit that is also called coast line goosefoot, red goosefoot and red pigweed. It blooms from late summer to early fall with small, green flowers. Fruits follow flowers and are red and very noticeable.

Oak-leaved Goosefoot (Oxybasis glauca subsp. glauca) is an annual plant whose common name comes from the shape of its leaves. It grows in full sun along roadsides railroads and disturbed places. Blooms from summer to fall with clusters of very small yellow flowers.

Saltmarsh goosefoot is a herbaceous annual that is salt and humidity tolerant, preferring nutrient-rich mud in exposed salty areas. Interestingly, this plant can have leaves of different shape; they can be oval with a smooth edge but also triangular and toothed. The life cycle of saltmarsh goosefoot is short, only 2-3 months.

City goosefoot (Oxybasis urbica) can be found across the world. While it is unable to survive in shade, it thrives in disturbed habitats. The plant's leaves are shaped like the foot of a goose, which explains the name goosefoot. Gold and green dyes can be extracted from it. City goosefoot is easily confused with nettle-leaved goosefoot, which grows primarily in wetlands.