Overview
Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen is a flowering plant that belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. This plant is commonly known as stinking goosefoot, although it also goes by many other names such as fitweed, duckfoot, and Mexican coriander. It is mainly used for medicinal and culinary purposes.Origin
Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen is native to Central and South America, although it is now widely distributed across other regions including the Caribbean, Asia, and Africa. It is believed to have been introduced to India during the 16th century by the Portuguese, where it is commonly referred to as 'Mexican coriander.'General Appearance
The stinking goosefoot is a small herbaceous plant that grows up to 60 cm in height. It has a slender stem with green leaves and small flowers that are green or yellowish in color. The leaves of the plant have a distinctively strong odor which is often likened to that of coriander, although it is much stronger and pungent.Uses
The stinking goosefoot is commonly used in traditional medicine to treat a wide range of ailments such as inflammation, digestive disorders, and respiratory illnesses. It is also believed to have antifungal, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties. In culinary use, the leaves are used to add flavor to dishes, and the plant is often a popular substitute for coriander in regions where the latter is unavailable.Light requirements
Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen, commonly known as stinking goosefoot, prefers moderate light levels for optimal growth. It is a versatile plant that can thrive in full sun or areas with partial shade, but complete shade may reduce plant growth. Direct exposure to direct sunlight for prolonged periods may also harm the plant.
Temperature range
The plant grows best in temperatures ranging from 18°C to 32°C. It requires a warm and humid environment for proper growth and development. The minimum temperature required for germination is 20°C, while the maximum temperature is 35°C. Extreme temperatures can cause the plant to bolt, affecting the yield.
Soil requirements
The plant requires fertile, well-draining, and slightly acidic soils with a pH range of 5.5-6.5. The soil should be rich in organic matter, and the addition of compost and other organic amendments can help improve soil quality. The plant has a shallow root system and does not tolerate waterlogged soils; thus, proper drainage is crucial for optimal growth.
Fertilization requirements
The plant responds well to regular fertilization, especially during the vegetative stage. A balanced NPK (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium) fertilizer with a ratio of 4:6:8 is ideal for the plant's growth. Overuse of nitrogen can cause the plant to grow excessively, affecting the flavor and texture of the leaves.
Water requirements
Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen requires moderate watering, and the soil should be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering may lead to fungal infections and root rot, affecting the plant's overall health. The plant can tolerate short periods of drought, but prolonged water stress may cause stunted growth.
Cultivation Methods:
Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen, commonly known as Mexican coriander or culantro, thrives in soil with good drainage. It is recommended to grow the plant from seeds which are often easily available at nurseries or through online stores. The seeds should be planted in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix that is slightly acidic in pH value. Coriander likes a temperate climate with a regular supply of sunlight, but it can also tolerate some shade. The seeds should be sown in shallow drills and covered with a light layer of soil mix, water the soil well and keep it moist until the germination occurs.
Watering Needs:
Mexican coriander prefers moist soil, but it does not tolerate standing water. Once the plant has established, it needs to be watered regularly and deeply, especially during hot and dry weather. It is essential to ensure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged to prevent root rot. The amount of water required depends on various factors such as weather, soil type, and stage of growth. However, it is best to water the plant once a week, but it is the grower's responsibility to keep a close eye on the soil moisture level.
Fertilization:
Mexican coriander can benefit from regular fertilization to encourage healthy growth and improve the yield. A balanced fertilizer that has equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium is ideal for the plant's growth. It is essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions on the fertilizer package carefully. Coriander requires a regular supply of nutrients, so it is advisable to fertilize it every three weeks during the growing season.
Pruning:
Cultivators should prune Mexican coriander regularly to encourage bushier growth, prevent the plant from going to seed too quickly, and promote fresh foliage. Prune the plant once it has grown to a height of 15 cm by cutting off the top half. This will help the plant to produce side shoots, resulting in bushier growth. Regular pruning will contribute to the longevity of the plant, which will produce leaves for a more extended period and reduce the likelihood of the plant going to seed too quickly. Pruning also promotes fresh foliage by removing old or diseased parts of the plant.
Propagation of Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen
Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen, commonly known as stinking goosefoot or Peruvian cilantro, can be propagated through several methods which include:
Seed propagation
The most common method of propagating Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen is by seed. The seeds can be sown directly in the garden or in seed trays and then transplanted to the garden later. The best time to sow the seeds is during the spring season when the soil temperature is around 21°C.
Cuttings propagation
Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen can also be propagated using cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the stem tips of a healthy plant. The cuttings should be dipped in rooting hormone and planted in a container filled with a well-draining potting mix. Keep the potting mix moist and place the container in a warm and bright location.
Division propagation
Dividing the roots of a mature Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen plant is another method of propagation. The ideal time for division is during the spring season before the plant starts to actively grow. Carefully remove the plant from the soil and gently divide the roots into several sections. Replant the sections in well-draining soil and keep the soil moist until the plants become established.
Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen is a hardy and easy-to-grow plant that will thrive in most soil types. With its numerous propagation methods, it's easy to propagate and maintain a thriving garden or houseplant.
Disease Management
Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen is susceptible to various fungal diseases, including powdery mildew, downy mildew, and leaf spot. These diseases can lead to defoliation and reduced plant vigor.
To manage these diseases, it is important to maintain proper plant hygiene through regular pruning of infected foliage and removal of fallen leaves. Additionally, cultural control practices such as crop rotation, proper spacing of plants, and avoiding overhead irrigation can prevent the spread of disease.
Fungicides such as copper-based products and sulfur can also be used to manage fungal diseases. However, it is important to follow label instructions and apply the fungicides before the onset of disease for effective control.
Pest Management
The primary pests that affect Chenopodium foetidum Schrad. subsp. gracile Aellen are aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. These pests can cause damage to the plant by sucking the sap, resulting in stunted growth and reduced yield.
To manage these pests, natural enemies such as ladybugs and lacewings can be introduced into the garden. Additionally, cultural practices such as intercropping with companion plants and maintaining proper soil moisture can reduce pest populations.
In severe infestations, insecticides such as neem oil and pyrethrin can be used as a last resort. However, it is important to follow label instructions and avoid applying the insecticides during flowering stage to protect pollinators.
