Fat Hen
Broadleaf annual weed
Fat hen is a vigorous annual of rich, worked soil, especially vegetable plots and compost-rich borders. A single plant can become tall and bushy in summer, so it is best removed while small. Its grey-green, powdery-looking foliage is a useful early warning before it competes strongly with nearby crops.
How to identify it
Fat hen commonly reaches 30 to 150 cm tall, with upright, grooved stems that may branch. Leaves are variable but usually triangular or diamond-shaped, with toothed or wavy edges and a grey-green, mealy coating, especially on young growth and leaf undersides. Small green flower clusters form in dense spikes near stem tips and leaf joints rather than showy petals. The root is a sturdy taproot with side roots. Older plants become coarse and harder to remove cleanly.
Where it grows
It is common across the UK on fertile, nitrogen-rich soil, particularly allotments, vegetable beds, compost heaps, manure-enriched ground and newly disturbed borders. Most seedlings emerge from spring into summer as soils warm. It also appears where bare soil is watered regularly, including around young shrubs and in gaps between crops.
Why it is a problem
Its size and fast growth can shade vegetables and ornamental seedlings, taking moisture and nutrients from productive ground. Plants produce abundant seed that can remain in the soil and germinate after future cultivation. Large specimens are awkward to pull and may seed unnoticed among tall crops or behind compost bins.
How to control it
Hoe fat hen when seedlings are tiny and weather is dry, before plants develop a strong taproot. Hand-pull larger plants after rain or watering, using a fork to loosen the root without disturbing nearby crops. Remove all flowering plants before seed clusters mature. Mulch between established plants and cover bare beds to block light. Avoid leaving cleared soil exposed for long periods, and keep checking through summer because fresh seedlings can follow each cultivation.
Commonly confused with
Fat hen can be confused with other goosefoots, including nettle-leaved goosefoot, and with young orache. Its characteristic grey-green, mealy surface and diamond-shaped leaves help separate it. Unlike true nettles, it lacks stinging hairs, and unlike red dead-nettle it has no square stem or pink flowers.
Fat Hen: frequently asked questions
How do I identify fat hen?
Fat hen commonly reaches 30 to 150 cm tall, with upright, grooved stems that may branch.
How do I get rid of fat hen?
Hoe fat hen when seedlings are tiny and weather is dry, before plants develop a strong taproot.
Where does fat hen grow?
It is common across the UK on fertile, nitrogen-rich soil, particularly allotments, vegetable beds, compost heaps, manure-enriched ground and newly disturbed borders.
General guidance for UK gardens and allotments, focused on prevention and non-chemical control. For a confirmed identification, the RHS or a local garden centre can help. Page updated 18 Sep 2026.