Good-King-Henry

Chenopodium bonus-henricus

SIZE AND DESCRIPTION

Erect perennial to 50cm tall. Leaves are triangular, to 10cm long, with wavy margins; they have a powdery surface when young, and turn dull green and smooth with age. Flowers are very small, greenish and borne on spikes.

DISTRIBUTION

Widespread but local throughout Europe, except the south-east.

USES

Young leaves can be eaten raw in salads, older leaves cooked in stews and soups, and young shoots cooked like asparagus. Seeds have a laxative effect. Avoid the plant if suffering from a kidney complaint or rheumatism.

Fat-hen

Chenopodium album

SIZE AND DESCRIPTION

Annual to 1.5m tall. Reddish stems are usually covered with a powdery white meal. Leaves are generally oval and pointed, with toothed margins. Flowers are whitish, and grow in small tight clusters on an open spike with leaves at the lower end.

DISTRIBUTION

Common across Europe.

USES

Young leaves and shoots can be eaten like spinach, or finely chopped and added to stews and soups. They are a good source of vitamin B1, protein, iron and calcium.