Pygmy goosefoot
Dysphania pusilla Mosyakin & Clemants
Dysphania pusilla, known as pygmy goosefoot or parahia in Māori, is a prostrate herb endemic to the north-eastern parts of South Island, New Zealand. Once thought to be extinct due to no sightings for 56 years, it was rediscovered in 2015.
Description
Dysphania pusilla, a member of the Chenopodiaceae family, is a small, prostrate herb native to New Zealand. It is found on both the North and South Islands. The species was previously known as Chenopodium pusillum and was not observed for over half a century, leading to its presumed extinction. However, it was rediscovered in 2015, highlighting its continued presence in its native habitat. The plant is commonly referred to as pygmy goosefoot in English and parahia in Māori.
Other common names
Pygmy goosefoot
Distribution
New Zealand North · New Zealand South
Synonyms
Chenopodium pusillum