Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo' (spinach 'Calisteo') — Clump forming

Overview

Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo' is a clump forming annual biennial in the genus Spinacia, part of the Amaranthaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo' grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates most soils and any pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H4. Suggested uses include patio and container plants.

About

Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo' is a clump-forming annual or biennial cultivar of the Spinacia genus, known for its herbaceous plants with upright stems and smooth, ovate or triangular leaves. This deciduous spinach variety thrives in fertile, moist but well-drained soil under full sun or partial shade, favouring sheltered, south-, east-, or west-facing aspects. Hardy to UK zone H4, 'Calisteo' is suitable for growing in chalk, clay, loam, or sand soils with a range of pH levels. It is commonly grown for its edible foliage and is well suited to patio and container cultivation, with interest during the summer and autumn seasons.

Growing conditions

Best soil and position for Spinacia

Sunlight: Full sun, Partial shade
Soil type: Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH: Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture: Moist but well-drained
Aspect: South-facing, East-facing, West-facing
Exposure: Sheltered
UK hardiness: H4

Plant details

Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo' size, habit and characteristics

Plant type: Annual Biennial
Habit: Clump forming
Foliage: Deciduous
Suggested uses: Patio and container plants

Care notes

Pruning and caring for Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo'

Propagation: Seed
Pest resistance: Generally pest-free but may be susceptible to damage by slugs and pigeons
Disease resistance: May be susceptible to spinach downy mildew

Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to plant Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo'?

Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo' prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.

What soil does Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo' need?

Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo' 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.

Is Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo' hardy in the UK?

Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo' has an RHS hardiness rating of H4, meaning it is hardy through an average UK winter, tolerating -10 to -5°C.

How do I propagate Spinacia oleracea 'Calisteo'?

Seed.

More in the Spinacia genus

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