Description
Chenopodium giganteum, also known as tree spinach, is a tall, herbaceous annual plant that is native to Central America. It can grow up to 12 feet tall, and it’s leaves are large, green and lobed. It is known for its high nutritional value, and it’s leaves and young shoots are used as a leafy green vegetable. The leaves have a spinach-like taste and can be used in salads, soups, and stews. The plant also produces small, greenish-white flowers that are not edible. It is tolerant of heat and drought, but it is not frost-hardy. It is not commonly grown as a vegetable crop but is mainly grown as an ornamental plant due to its height and large leaves. It’s also known as “Magua” or “Giant Goosefoot”.
Key Facts
- Common Name(s):Tree Spinach
- Hardiness:Fully hardy through most of the UK
- How big will I get? Chenopodium giganteum can grow to a height of 2m and a spread of 0.5m.
- Did You Know That:Chenopodium giganteum is a great option for permaculture gardens, it can be grown as a living mulch and it can be used as a food and medicine source?
Plant Calendar
A rough guide to how this plant will change through the year.
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Care Guide
Soil Requirements
Chenopodium giganteum is a versatile plant and can cope with wet or drier soils, but prefers there to be decent drainage. This plant can grow in soil with a wide range of pH levels, it is not picky about the pH level of the soil.
Best Position
Chenopodium giganteum prefers a sheltered position and can cope with either full sun or partial shade.
Maintenance
Chenopodium giganteum is fairly low maintenance and doesn’t require any pruning.
Pest, Diseases and Wildlife
Chenopodium giganteum is generally pest free, and it tends not to have problems with diseases.
