Chenopodium capitatum STRAWBERRY SPINACH (plant)

Strawberry spinach, blite gossefoot also known as Chenopodium capitatum in Latin, is a small annual plant from the Amaranthaceae family. It produces numerous small red berries that appear along its stems. Native to Asia, this fruit-vegetable grows in clumps reaching 30 to 60 cm in height.

The leaves of Chenopodium capitatum are small to medium-sized, measuring 10 cm in length, oval or elliptical, with a smooth or slightly wavy surface. Their color ranges from light to dark green, sometimes with a reddish or purple tint, particularly near the base or on certain veins. They are arranged in a rosette at the base of the plant.

Its flowers are tiny, grouped in dense head-like inflorescences. They are green to yellowish in color, sometimes with pinkish or purple nuances. Flowering occurs in summer.

Its fruits are small round capsules, measuring a few millimeters in diameter. As they ripen, they turn a bright red color, giving them an attractive appearance.

Strawberry spinach seeds are very small, measuring barely 1 millimeter in diameter, perfectly round, and black in color.

- Uses:

It is possible to consume both the leaves, which have a slight nutty flavor, and the small red strawberry-shaped berries. Its small, juicy, and tangy red fruits resemble strawberries and have a mild beet-like taste.

It is an original and flavorful potherb that can be prepared in several ways: the leaves are cooked like spinach or eaten raw in salads.

The fruits, meanwhile, can brighten up your sweet salads. Both the leaves and the fruits are available almost year-round. Leaves are harvested according to their growth and your needs. The same applies to the fruits.

In traditional medicine, Chenopodium capitatum is sometimes used for its antioxidant properties and to strengthen the immune system. Do not use for medicinal purposes without seeking medical advice.

- Cultivation and Planting:

• Plant the strawberry spinach promptly in a 3-liter pot with good quality horticultural potting soil.
• Drain the bottom of the pot with small pebbles.
• Water at the base during planting.
• Place the plant in partial shade for a few days to acclimate it to its new environment.
• It can also be planted directly in the ground in the garden.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

It grows very well in rich, well-drained, and slightly sandy soils. It also adapts to fertile soils rich in organic matter. Well-drained soil prevents water accumulation that could promote root rot.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

This plant prefers full-sun locations to promote optimal growth. It can tolerate light shade, but it develops best with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

- Hardiness / Temperatures:

Chenopodium capitatum prefers moderate temperatures, between 15°C and 25°C. It is sensitive to frost, so it is advisable to cultivate it starting in spring.

- Water Requirements / Watering:

Watering should be regular but moderate, allowing the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid excess water. During hot periods, increase the watering frequency to keep the soil cool.

- Reproduction / Propagation:

It is mainly propagated by seeds. Dividing the clumps can also be considered.

- Diseases / Pests:

Its main pests are aphids and whiteflies, which can affect the plant by sucking its sap. It can also be prone to powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions with poor ventilation.