Chenopodium nuttalliae is a species of edible plant native to Mexico. It is known by the common names huauzontle and Aztec broccoli. Other variations of the name include huauhzontle, huazontle, huanzontle, and guausoncle. It is related to other commonly-consumed plants such as quinoa, amaranth, and epazote, as well as the common American weeds goosefoot and lambsquarters. The plant grows upright branches with red tinted green leafy stems. Huauzontle stems superficially resemble baby broccoli, although the stems are much thinner, and support fewer of the leaves.
Like amaranth, huauzontle is very resistant to cold and dry climates, and grows even in poor soil. In addition, it has a high nutritional level, which makes it an excellent grain alternative in regions with difficulties sowing other types of cereals.
During the rule of Moctezuma, huauzontle and amaranth were the fourth most important crops, after maize, beans, and chia. Many towns paid tribute to the Aztec empire in huauzontle.

Categories: Dish Vegetable
Characteristic of: Mexican cuisine
Also known as:
English: Aztec broccoli
Latin species name: Chenopodium nuttalliae
Wikidata ID: Q5926347
Wikipedia title: Chenopodium nuttalliae
References:

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