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 -10°C

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 6–12 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 18–24 °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.