Spinach Tree Spinach Herb Seeds

Cnidoscolus aconitifolius, commonly known as Tree Spinach or Chaya, is a hardy and fast-growing perennial herb that provides a nutritious, leafy green ideal for various culinary uses.

 

The name Cnidoscolus comes from the Greek word "cnidos," meaning stinging, referring to the plant’s mild, stinging hairs on the leaves when first touched, which diminish when cooked. Aconitifolius refers to the plant’s distinctive, lobed leaves, resembling those of the aconite plant. Known for its high nutritional value, Tree Spinach is often used in Mexican and Central American cuisine, where its tender leaves are cooked and used in soups, stews, and as a vegetable side dish.

 

This unique herb is highly adaptable, thriving in well-drained, moderately fertile soil and prefers full sun to partial shade. Tree Spinach grows to a height of 1.5 - 2 meters, making it an excellent choice for large herb gardens, edible landscapes, or for creating a leafy backdrop in your garden.

 

The plant has a long growing season and can be harvested continuously, providing an abundance of greens throughout the year.

 

Seed Qty: Approx. 125

 

Sow: March - May (indoors) or April - May (outdoors)

Germination: 7 - 14 days

Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil; neutral to slightly alkaline pH

Height: 1.5 - 2 meters

Flowering: August - October

Companion Plants: Beans, Peas, Tomatoes

Avoid Planting With: Heavy feeders like cabbage or cauliflower

 

Tree Spinach is a low-maintenance, easy-to-grow herb that thrives with minimal attention once established. It benefits from regular watering during dry spells, but avoid overwatering. Harvest the large, tender leaves once they reach a suitable size, and cook them to remove any potential mild irritation from the raw leaves. The plant’s perennial nature means it will continue to provide a steady supply of greens for many years.

 

Sowing Instructions

 

Indoors: Sow seeds in trays or pots filled with moist, well-drained compost from March to April. Lightly cover the seeds with compost and keep at 18-21°C. Transplant seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle, and harden off before planting outdoors after the last frost.

 

Outdoors: Sow directly into prepared, weed-free soil from April to May. Lightly cover the seeds with soil and keep moist until germination occurs. Thin seedlings to the recommended spacing for healthy growth.

 

Tree Spinach is perfect for those looking to grow a nutritious, perennial leafy green that is easy to care for and can be enjoyed throughout the year. Whether used in traditional dishes or as a healthy side, this herb is a valuable addition to any edible garden.