New Zealand Spinach

Tetragonia tetragonioides

Physical Characteristics

Tetragonia tetragonioides is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure.

Distribution

Australia to New Zealand.

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Shoots Edible Uses: Leaves - raw or cooked. A spinach substitute[183], the shoot tips are harvested when about 8cm long, this encourages plenty of side growth with lots more shoots to harvest[264]. A delicious substitute for spinach, the very young leaves and shoots can also be eaten raw in salads[193, 264]. The young leaves are best, older leaves developing an acrid taste.

Medicinal Uses

None known

Known Hazards

None known