Cutleaf Goosefoot: An Introduced Plant You Might Find in Your Garden
Have you ever spotted a small, feathery-leaved plant popping up uninvited in your garden and wondered what it was? You might be looking at cutleaf goosefoot (Dysphania multifida), also known as small-leaved wormseed. This unassuming little plant has quite the story to tell, and while it’s not native to North America, it’s made itself quite at home here.
What is Cutleaf Goosefoot?
Cutleaf goosefoot is a small herbaceous plant that can grow as either an annual or perennial, depending on conditions. It’s what botanists call a forb – essentially a soft-stemmed plant without woody tissue that dies back to ground level. The plant gets its common name from its distinctive deeply-cut, feathery leaves that almost look like they’ve been given a fancy haircut.
You might also see this plant referred to by some of its scientific synonyms, including Chenopodium multifidum, Roubieva multifida, or Teloxys multifida – botanists love to shuffle plant names around!
Where Does It Come From and Where Can You Find It?
Originally hailing from South America, cutleaf goosefoot is considered a non-native species that has naturalized across much of the United States. It reproduces on its own without human help and has established populations that persist over time.
You can find this adaptable plant growing in fifteen states across the country, from coast to coast: Alabama, California, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Should You Grow Cutleaf Goosefoot in Your Garden?
Here’s where things get interesting. While cutleaf goosefoot isn’t considered invasive or noxious, it’s not typically something gardeners plant on purpose either. It tends to show up on its own, particularly in disturbed soils and garden beds.
The Case Against Planting It
- Limited ornamental value compared to native alternatives
- Not specifically beneficial for local wildlife or pollinators
- Can spread readily and may compete with desired plants
- Better native options exist for most garden purposes
If You Decide to Keep It Around
If cutleaf goosefoot has appeared in your garden and you don’t mind its presence, it’s relatively low-maintenance. The plant is quite adaptable and will grow in various soil conditions. It tends to thrive in disturbed areas and can handle some neglect.
However, keep an eye on it to ensure it doesn’t crowd out plants you actually want in your garden. Like many non-native species, it can be quite enthusiastic about spreading.
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of encouraging cutleaf goosefoot, consider these native alternatives that will provide similar textures and better wildlife benefits:
- Native artemisia species for feathery foliage
- Wild bergamot for pollinator-friendly flowers
- Native sedges for textural interest
- Local native grasses for naturalistic plantings
The Bottom Line
Cutleaf goosefoot is one of those plants that’s neither hero nor villain in the garden world. If it shows up, it’s not going to cause ecological disaster, but it’s also not going to win any garden design awards. Your garden real estate is precious – why not fill it with native plants that will support local wildlife, look beautiful, and connect your landscape to the natural heritage of your region?
If you’re curious about native plants that would thrive in your specific location, reach out to your local native plant society or extension office. They’ll have excellent recommendations for plants that are not just beautiful, but truly belong in your corner of the world.
