Organic Aztec ‘Strawberry Spinach’

Organic Aztec spinach ‘Strawberry Spinach’ (Chenopodium capitatum) from Gaia Seeds, a North American heritage plant with unique crimson berries

Strawberry spinach is a fascinating heritage plant, native to the humid mountain valleys of North America . Cultivated and used by several Indigenous peoples notably to make red ink it has also been appreciated in Europe since the 1600s.
Its leaves , similar to those of spinach, are edible (to be consumed in moderation as they are high in oxalates ), while its crimson berries , juicy and sweet when fully ripe, are the true attraction of this plant. Related to white goosefoot, it is both ornamental and edible , ideal for exploratory edible gardens.

Spread/Habit : Low, branching clump
Plant height : 30 to 45 cm
Quantity per packet : 100 seeds
Certification : Certified organic by Ecocert Canada
Special features : Edible crimson berries, native North American plant, used as ink, spinach-like leaves (rich in oxalates)

Leaf color : Medium green
Texture/flavor : Leaves taste like spinach; berries are sweet and juicy when red.
Cold tolerance : Down to -10C

Resistant to deer? (undocumented leave blank)

Farming method

Sow directly outdoors in early spring , after the last frosts, or start sowing 4 to 6 weeks before planting.
Bury the seeds 612 mm (1/4 to 1/2) deep in well-drained, moderately fertile soil.
Place in partial sun / partial shade (level 2) with light watering (level 1).
Germination in 5 to 15 days between 10 and 30 C (optimal 1824 C).
Spacing: 30 cm between plants , 60 to 90 cm between rows.

Harvesting and preservation

Leaves : To be harvested young, in moderate quantity.
Berries : Pick when they are crimson and fully ripe their flavor is then juicy and sweet.
Seeds : To be harvested dry for reseeding or light culinary use.

The berries can be eaten fresh or used to color desserts, sauces or drinks.

Usage ideas

In salads mixing leaves and berries
As a snack , fresh berries are very decorative
In jams or very light gels (subtle flavor)
As a natural red dye
As an edible ornamental plant in permaculture flowerbeds or vegetable gardens

Strawberry spinach is a rare, ancient and amazing plant, perfect for curious gardeners who wish to combine history, color and edibility in their garden.