Overview

Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado' is a spreading branched annual biennial in the genus Chenopodium, part of the Amaranthaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H7. Suggested uses include wildlife gardens.

About

Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado' is a spreading branched annual or biennial herb within the Chenopodium genus, known for its mealy-textured stems and leaves. This deciduous plant thrives in full sun or partial shade and prefers fertile, moist but well-drained soils, including chalk, clay, loam, and sand with a range of pH levels. It is hardy to UK zone H7 and is suited to both exposed and sheltered sites facing east, west, or south. 'Dorado' produces small clustered flowers through summer and autumn, with prolific seed production that supports wildlife gardens.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Chenopodium

Sunlight
Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained, Well-drained
Aspect
East-facing, West-facing, South-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H7

Plant details

Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type
Annual Biennial, Herbs - Culinary
Habit
Spreading branched
Foliage
Deciduous
Suggested uses
Wildlife gardens

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado'

Propagation
Self- and wind pollinated, propagates by seed produced prolifically through the growing season. Seed can remain viable in the soil for many years
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to root nematodes
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to downy mildews

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado'?

Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits exposed and sheltered positions.

What soil does Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado' need?

Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado' is adaptable and grows happily in most soil types, including chalk, clay, loam and sand. It is happy in soil of any pH. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained to well-drained.

Is Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado' hardy in the UK?

Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado' has an RHS hardiness rating of H7, meaning it is fully hardy throughout the UK, tolerating temperatures below -20°C.

How do I propagate Chenopodium quinoa 'Dorado'?

Self- and wind pollinated, propagates by seed produced prolifically through the growing season. Seed can remain viable in the soil for many years.

More in the Chenopodium genus

Browse all Chenopodium