Chenopodium giganteum aka Tree Spinach

Taxonomy

Chenopodium giganteum, also known as tree spinach, is an edible annual plant that can grow to a towering height of up to 3 meters. Its many-branched shrub features an upright, red-flushed stem with a diameter of up to 5 cm at the base. The older leaves are mid green in color, arrow-shaped, and serrated, while the younger leaves and center rosettes open out as a vibrant magenta, displaying a glittery appearance with a dark pink underside. These striking leaves make a delightful addition to salads, offering a taste similar to spinach and chard, with a subtle hint of asparagus when cooked. To maintain the plant's tender leaves and prevent premature seed production, continuous picking is recommended. However, it's important to manage C. giganteum carefully as it can become invasive if left unchecked. In late summer, the plant produces terminal spikes of insignificant green, sometimes red-flushed flowers.

Common names

Tree Spinach, Magentaspreen, Tree Spinnach

How to care for Tree Spinach

Difficulty

Tree Spinach is a low-maintenance plant that requires minimal attention, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

Lighting

Tree Spinach requires abundant, bright and direct light. Placing it less than one foot from a window is the best way to make sure the plant receives enough light to survive and thrive. Depending on your region, however, the current weather can affect the placement of the plant in your home. For example, in some areas the sun may be too direct and intense, so it's best to place it farther away from the window. You may also need to adjust your placement according to the season as the sunlight can change intensity over the course of the year. If you live in a region with significant temperature fluctuations, such as a desert, you may need to place the plant a bit farther away from the window to avoid extreme heat or cold. With some care and attention, your Tree Spinach will be sure to bring you many years of beauty and enjoyment.

Dormancy

During the cold period, it is common for Tree Spinach to go dormant and their growth may slow down, so waterings should be spaced out more during this period.

Toxicity

Ploi's records do not contain confirmed information on the toxicity of this particular plant. In the event of accidental ingestion of plant material with questionable toxicity by you, a family member, or a pet, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare professional.

Region of origin

Tree Spinach’s native range is E. Asia - N. India. Naturalized in S. France[50].


More info:
Wikipedia