Overview
Atriplex hortensis var. rubra is a columnar upright annual biennial in the genus Atriplex, part of the Amaranthaceae family, with deciduous foliage. It typically grows around 1-1.5 metres tall and 0.1-0.5 metres wide, reaching full size in around 1-2 years. Atriplex hortensis var. rubra grows best in full sun, and tolerates loam and sand soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H2. Suggested uses include cottage and informal garden, architectural, flower borders and beds and cut flowers.
About
Atriplex hortensis var. rubra, commonly known as red mountain spinach or red orach, is a deciduous annual or biennial plant in the Amaranthaceae family. It grows with a columnar upright habit, reaching heights of 1 to 1.5 metres and spreading between 0.1 and 0.5 metres over one to two years. This cultivar thrives in full sun and can be grown in both exposed and sheltered locations, preferring well-drained loam or sandy soils with a pH ranging from acid to alkaline. It is particularly notable during the summer season.
About the genus
Atriplex is a plant genus of about 250 species, known by the common names of saltbush and orache. It belongs to the subfamily Chenopodioideae of the family Amaranthaceae s.l.. The genus is quite variable and widely distributed.
Wikipedia contributors, "Atriplex", CC BY-SA 4.0 — Atriplex
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Atriplex
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- West-facing, South-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H2
Plant details
Atriplex hortensis var. rubra size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Annual Biennial
- Habit
- Columnar upright
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 1-1.5 metres
- Spread
- 0.1-0.5 metres
- Time to full height
- 1-2 years
- Suggested uses
- Cottage and informal garden, Architectural, Flower borders and beds, Cut flowers
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Atriplex hortensis var. rubra
- Propagation
- Seed
- Pest resistance
- Generally pest-free
- Disease resistance
- Generally disease-free
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Atriplex hortensis var. rubra?
Atriplex hortensis var. rubra prefers full sun. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.
What soil does Atriplex hortensis var. rubra need?
Atriplex hortensis var. rubra grows best in loam and sand soil. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays well-drained.
How big does Atriplex hortensis var. rubra grow?
Atriplex hortensis var. rubra reaches a height of 1-1.5 metres and a spread of 0.1-0.5 metres. It takes around 1-2 years to reach full size.
Is Atriplex hortensis var. rubra hardy in the UK?
Atriplex hortensis var. rubra has an RHS hardiness rating of H2, meaning it is tender, tolerating 1–5°C, and needs frost-free protection over winter.
How do I propagate Atriplex hortensis var. rubra?
Seed.
More in the Atriplex genus
Browse all Atriplex →
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