Red Orach

Atriplex hortensis var. rubra, often known as 'mountain spinach', is an striking annual herb that provides both culinary utility and intense ornamental value. In UK vegetable and herb gardens, it is grown for its vibrant, deep burgundy-red foliage which retains its colour even when cooked. The plant is fast-growing and can reach up to 1.5 metres if allowed to flower, though it is usually pinched back to encourage tender new leaves. The flavour is similar to spinach but with a slightly more salty, mineral-rich undertone. It is very easy to grow from seed sown directly in spring and will often self-seed freely if some flower heads are left to mature. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, including poor or slightly saline soils, and is generally more drought-tolerant than spinach. The dark purple-red seed heads are also highly decorative in dried flower arrangements.

Sun: Full sun to partial shade.

Soil: Any well-drained soil.

Hardiness: H4 — down to −10°C.

Flowering: Jul, Aug.