About

Chenopodium giganteum 'Magentaspreen' is an annual plant known for its elongated clusters of small red blossoms. The mature foliage features arrow-shaped, serrated leaves in a medium green hue. In contrast, the younger leaves and central rosettes emerge in a vibrant magenta, displaying a shimmer and a dark pink underside, enhancing salads with their unique color. The flavor profile resembles that of spinach and chard, with a subtle asparagus note when cooked. Regular harvesting encourages tender leaf production and prevents premature flowering.

About the genus

Chenopodium includes both annual and perennial species, characterized by stems and leaves that may have a mealy texture. The leaves can be either simple or lobed, and the plant produces small flowers that appear in clusters at the ends of branches or in the leaf axils. In some species, these flowers are succeeded by colorful fruits.

Growing conditions

Sunlight

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil type

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Soil pH

Neutral, Alkaline, Acid

Soil moisture

Well-drained, Moist but well-drained

Aspect

East-facing, South-facing, West-facing

Exposure

Sheltered

UK hardiness

H4

Plant details

Plant type

Annual Biennial, Herbs - Culinary

Habit

Columnar upright, Bushy

Foliage

Deciduous

Height

1.5-2.5 metres

Spread

1-1.5 metres

Time to full height

1 year

Suggested uses

Cottage and informal garden, Sub-tropical

Care notes

Cultivation

Grow in any well-drained fertile soil, in a sunny or semi-shaded position. In the ideal growing conditions they can grow quite rapidly and may require staking if they become too tall

Pruning

Harvest the leaves as required, to keep the plant compact and cropping well

Propagation

Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds

Pest resistance

Generally pest-free

Disease resistance

Generally disease-free