Strawberry Spinach – Chenopodium Capitatum

Strawberry Spinach – CHENOPODIUM CAPITATUM

Strawberry Spinach (Chenopodium capitatum) or ‘Strawberry Sticks’ is a curious plant native to the US. It can be used as an attractive annual, the berries are also edible, and leaves make an excellent addition to any salad. Best suited to a sunny sheltered position with good drainage.

The berries are attractive (not a strawberry), but the main edible element is the leaves.

Cultivation Advice Strawberry Spinach – CHENOPODIUM CAPITATUM

• Can be sown early, under cover, in trays of well drained seed compost.
• Germination 10-14 days
• Prick out when large enough to handle and grow on, gradually acclimatising after all danger of frost has passed before planting out.
• Larger plants do not like being disturbed.
• Can be sown direct to the growing position when the soil has warmed, and weeds are growing vigorously.
• Harvest young leaves around 60 days after sowing, the fruits only form after the plant has bolted and flowered.