Chenopodium

/ˌkɛnəˈpoʊdiəm/ noun

Definition

A large genus of plants in the amaranth family, including quinoa and lamb's quarters, many of which are edible or used as herbs.

Etymology

From Greek 'chen' (goose) and 'podium' (foot), literally 'goose foot' because the leaf shape resembles a goose's foot. This scientific genus name was established in Linnaeus's classification system in the 18th century.

Kelly Says

Quinoa, one of the world's trendiest superfoods, is actually just a modern rebranding of a humble chenopodium that Andean cultures have eaten for thousands of years—the 'goose foot' plant turned into a superfood.

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