Forage Albuquerque

In season through

Native range:

Tumbleweed leaves

The famous tumbleweed or Russian Thistle (Salsola tragus) is edible before it becomes prickly.

Growing tips from small plants have a tart, salty flavor and can be eaten raw or cooked.

It was accidentally introduced in the 1870s and quickly rolled its way across the west.

Tumbleweed flowers
Tumbleweeds are diverse. Occasional plants will grow showy pink flowers. Once flowering begins, the plant is too spiny to eat.

Tumbleweeds have a complex relationship with humans and native species. Their prickles are unpleasant and piles can become a fire hazard. Nonetheless, they are eaten by many animals and they can help regenerate barren soil.