Wormseed (Chenopodium ambrosioides anthelminticum)

Family: Chenopodiaceae | Edibility: Edible (2/5)

Chenopodium ambrosioides anthelminticum is a ANNUAL/PERENNIAL growing to 1 m (3ft 3in) by 0.7 m (2ft 4in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to October, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

taste due to the presence of resinous dots and sticky hairs. — The tender leaves are sometimes used as a potherb.; Used as a condiment in soups etc, it is said to reduce flatulence if eaten with beans.; The leaves have a rank taste due to the presence of resinous dots and sticky hairs.; The raw leaves should only be eaten in small quantities, see the notes above on toxicity.

Habitat & North American Range

Mainly found on dry wasteland and cultivated ground. (Zone 7, Zone 8, Zone 9, Zone 10)