Monday, March 25, 2013

What even is chickweed?


What the heck is chickweed?

Yup that’s admittedly the first thing that popped into my head when I first heard of it about eight months ago.

The next thing I learned was that it was a sensitive issue around Riverview. Some members being righteous supporters of the chickweeds right to live and provide nourishment, others critiquing the unwillingness of the general population to receive nourishment it that particular form. I think some type of compromise was eventually reached.

But I decided I should better educate myself on the issue.

Chickweed is a widespread, hardy annual plant that thrives in cold climates. Numerous sources agree that it is edible, but most add that it is “not very tasty.” (Sorry Sarah, I know you’re on their side.) It looks like this.


Kind of pretty. I’m afraid to say most articles then go on to explain the best ways of eradicating it. But you know if you dig around you can find some people posting ‘chickweed pesto’ recipes among other things, and apparently it can be used on cuts and other wounds to reduce pain and promote healing.

Other interesting things about chickweed. It’s actually classified as an herb, not a weed. It’s called chickweed because chickens really like to eat it. Please feel free to start a raging debate below in the comment section about whether it should be lovingly grown or heartlessly pulled.

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