Description
Atriplex hortensis
I discovered this fantastic plant in a friend’s veggie patch some years back and have been a huge fan ever since (the young leaves are edible and are often compared to spinach). Early in the season, harvest the leafy stems en masse for bouquets. If plants are left to grow, you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous seedy stems that are wonderful in large midsummer arrangements. This mix includes brilliant Granny Smith green and rich chocolaty crimson.
Plant type: annual
Height: 60”
Site: full sun
Days to maturity: 75-110 days
Plant spacing: 12”
Pinch: when 8-12”
Approx seeds per packet: 100
How to grow:
Start seed indoors in trays 4-6 weeks before last frost; transplant out after all danger of frost has passed.
Harvesting/vase life:
Fresh stems used for their foliage last longest when you dip them for 7-10 seconds in boiling water directly after harvest; seeded stems do not need any special post harvest treatment. Both can last up to 2 weeks in the vase.
