About

A perennial, often grown as an annual salad, to 30cm tall. Harvest leaves as needed and enjoy them raw, or wilted like spinach. It is cultivated for its edible, slightly succulent leaves which are borne on upright stems.

About the genus

Tetragonia includes herbaceous and sometimes woody species grown for their ornamental merit. The genus is represented in gardens by selected species and cultivars suited to a range of growing conditions

Growing conditions

SunlightFull sun
Soil typeChalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH3

Plant details

Plant typeAnnual Biennial
HabitColumnar upright
FoliageDeciduous
Height0.1-0.5 metres
Spread0.1-0.5 metres
Time to full height1-2 years
Suggested usesCoastal, Patio and container plants

Care notes

CultivationGrow in any moderately fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun. Protect from frosts
PruningNo pruning required
PropagationPropagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceGenerally disease-free