IDENTIFICATION
Annual.
Lamb's-quarters is a many-branched pyramid-shaped plant with ridged
stems that are often striped with purple. Inconspicuous flowers in spike-shaped
clusters are crowded in the angle between leaf and stem or on ends of
stems. Somewhat succulent leaves can vary from narrow to wedge-shaped
and carry mealy particles on greyish-green undersides. Mature plants grow
to a height of 2 m.
DAMAGE
This weed is one of the most abundant weeds affecting crops in BC. Its
tall stature and high water consumption allow it to seriously reduce yields.
It does not usually invade native plant communities. Livestock will eat
the young plants, which can cause nitrate poisoning in sheep and swine.
Airborne pollen causes hay fever in humans.
HABITAT
Lamb's-quarters tolerates a wide range of environmental conditions
but requires sunlight and well-drained soils. In British Columbia, it
is found in cultivated crops, gardens, fields, roadsides, and disturbed
places. It is common in all agricultural regions of the province.
SPREAD
Most seeds drop beside the parent plants. Birds and livestock consume
and spread the seeds, and farming and road building can also disperse
seeds.
