Jerusalem-Oak Goosefoot

Dysphania botrys Origin: Poznan, Poland Improvement status: Landrace Seeds per packet: ~65 Germination tested 1/2024: 50% Life cycle: Annual Also called "stock cube plant" for its savory flavor evoking bouillon cubes, Jerusalem-oak goosefoot is a Eurasian cousin of the famously aromatic Mexican herb epazote (Dysphania ambrosioides). A member of the Amaranth family, it was formerly placed in the Chenopodium genus alongside quinoa and lamb's quarters, to which it bears some clear similarities. Its tiny seeds are also edible (after soaking and rinsing to remove saponins). This plant is best used sparingly, as there are some indications it may be toxic in high doses. There are reports of it being eaten as a vegetable, but we think it's mostly used as a flavoring. The "stock cube" flavor has echoes of cilantro or coriander, but it is quite distinct. This is an annual plant native from central Europe and the Mediterranean east to Xinjiang (western China). It has naturalized across North Ame