Growing NZ Spinach, also Warrigal greens

Tetragonia expansa : Aizoaceae / the fig-marigold family

Jan F M A M J J A S O N Dec
    S                  
        T              
        P              

(Best months for growing NZ Spinach in USA - Zone 5a regions)

  • S = Plant undercover in seed trays
  • T = Plant out (transplant) seedlings
  • P = Sow seed
  • Grow in seed trays, and plant out in 4-6 weeks. Sow seed at a depth approximately three times the diameter of the seed. Best planted at soil temperatures between 18°C and 35°C. (Show °F/in)
  • Space plants: 45 - 60 cm apart
  • Harvest in 8-10 weeks. Pick the tips.
  • Compatible with (can grow beside): Does better if alone.
  • NZ Spinach

NZ spinach has green, triangulated leaves and a spreading habit.

This is a coastal plant which natively grows on dune edges. It survives salt-spray in coastal gardens.

It can withstand hot, dry summer weather when real spinach tends to die off. Will self-sow and become widespread.

Soak seeds for one or two hours before sowing as the outer skin is hard.

Culinary hints - cooking and eating NZ Spinach

Can be used as a substitute for real spinach in cooking. Pick the growing tips at about 8 - 10 cm (4 - 6 in).

To remove oxalates it's a good idea to blanch the leaves for 3 minutes or so, then rinse the leaves in cold water before using them in salads or for cooking. (ABC TV)

Your comments and tips

11 Apr 20, Robert Schaper (USA - Zone 3a climate)
If new zealand spinach self seeds, when would I expect seedlings to sprout?
16 Oct 21, Chris (Australia - sub-tropical climate)
They take around 1-3 weeks to germinate

I am from South Africa where can get seeds I want plant it for the poor people here

- Michris Janse van Rensburg

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