Clammy Goosefoot: A Weedy Visitor You Probably Don’t Want in Your Garden
If you’ve spotted a small, somewhat sticky-feeling plant with tiny greenish flowers lurking in disturbed areas of your property, you might have encountered clammy goosefoot (Dysphania pumilio). Also known as small crumbweed, this unassuming annual herb is one of those plants that gardeners typically discover rather than deliberately plant.
What Exactly is Clammy Goosefoot?
Clammy goosefoot is a small annual forb—basically a non-woody herbaceous plant that completes its entire life cycle in one growing season. True to its common name, the leaves often feel slightly sticky or clammy to the touch, and they’re typically triangular to diamond-shaped. The plant produces clusters of tiny, inconspicuous greenish flowers that you might easily overlook if you’re not looking closely.
This plant goes by several scientific names due to taxonomic reshuffling over the years. You might see it listed as Chenopodium pumilio or Teloxys pumilio in older references, but Dysphania pumilio is the currently accepted name.
Where Does It Come From and Where Can You Find It?
Originally from Australia, clammy goosefoot has made itself at home across much of North America. It’s now found throughout most of the United States—from Alabama to Washington, and from California to Massachusetts—as well as in parts of Canada including British Columbia and Ontario. The plant has successfully established populations in Hawaii as well.
Should You Plant Clammy Goosefoot in Your Garden?
Here’s the short answer: probably not. While clammy goosefoot isn’t officially classified as invasive or noxious, it’s generally considered a weedy species that shows up uninvited rather than being welcomed. Here’s why most gardeners give it a pass:
- It lacks significant ornamental value with its small, unremarkable flowers
- The plant tends to appear in disturbed or waste areas rather than well-maintained gardens
- Its growth habit is more scraggly than attractive
- It offers minimal benefits to pollinators due to its wind-pollinated flowers
Native Alternatives to Consider Instead
If you’re looking to add native plants to your landscape that can handle tough conditions like clammy goosefoot does, consider these North American natives instead:
- Native goosefoot species like lambsquarters (Chenopodium album) – though this can also be weedy
- Wild bergamot (Monarda species) for areas that need drought-tolerant natives
- Native asters or goldenrod for late-season color and pollinator support
- Regional native grasses for areas with poor soil
If You Already Have It Growing
Since clammy goosefoot is an annual, it completes its life cycle in one year and relies on seeds for the next generation. If you want to manage existing populations:
- Remove plants before they set seed to prevent spread
- Improve soil conditions and plant desirable species to outcompete it
- Hand-pull small populations when soil is moist
- Focus on preventing soil disturbance where possible, as this plant thrives in disturbed areas
Growing Conditions (If You’re Curious)
Clammy goosefoot is remarkably adaptable, which explains its widespread distribution. It tolerates:
- Poor, disturbed soils
- Full sun conditions
- Dry conditions once established
- A wide range of climatic conditions (USDA zones 3-10)
The Bottom Line
While clammy goosefoot isn’t necessarily harmful, it’s not adding much value to your garden either. This Australian native has found its niche in North America, but that niche is primarily in disturbed, weedy areas rather than thoughtfully designed landscapes. If you’re looking to support local ecosystems and create beautiful garden spaces, your energy is better invested in native plants that offer real benefits to both wildlife and your landscape’s aesthetic appeal.
Remember, every garden is an opportunity to support local biodiversity—why not make it count with plants that truly belong in your regional ecosystem?
