Caucasian spinach
Hablitzia tamnoidesfam. Boraginaceae
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Pl. 036B — Hablitzia tamnoides
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IOverview
Overview
Caucasian spinach (Hablitzia tamnoides) is a perennial plant that thrives in moist conditions and can tolerate partial to full sun or shade, making it adaptable to various environments within its native range of East Aegean Islands, Iran, North Caucasus, Transcaucasus, and Turkey. Known for its edible shoots, this plant reaches heights up to 3 meters and prefers light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay) soils. Hardy from zones 3-9, it is a versatile addition to gardens where its distinctive ability to grow in diverse lighting conditions can be appreciated.
Quick answers
What is Caucasian spinach?
Caucasian spinach (Hablitzia tamnoides) is a perennial plant that thrives in moist conditions and can tolerate partial to full sun or shade, making it adaptable to various environments within its native range of East Aegean Islands, Iran, North Caucasus, Transcaucasus, and Turkey.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Caucasian spinach thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 3-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. This perennial can grow up to 3 meters tall and is propagated through seeds or division. Harvest its edible shoots for a nutritious addition to your garden.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
3-9
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
3.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Caucasian spinach for the first time
8steps
Start with a simple, light-loving spot in your garden for Caucasian spinach.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, a trowel, and a watering can.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds in spring after the last frost, or transplant young plants anytime from early spring to late summer.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a spot with well-draining soil that's light (sandy), medium, or heavy. Ensure it gets full sun to partial shade.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 inches deep, spaced about 12-18 inches apart. Transplant young plants with care to avoid damaging roots.
- 5
First two weeks
Keep the soil consistently moist and provide light shade if full sun is too intense for new growth.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water regularly, especially during dry spells, and mulch around plants to retain moisture. Watch for pests like aphids.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune back any dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth. Harvest young shoots as needed for use in cooking.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy shade, and neglecting regular pruning are common pitfalls.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:Shoots
Edible uses: The shoots of Caucasian spinach are edible and can be eaten raw or cooked. They are commonly prepared in salads for a light, fresh addition to meals. Occasionally, they may also be steamed or stir-fried.
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 3 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 3 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 5 native· 3 introduced
Europe4 regions
native (1)Russia
introduced (3)FinlandNorwaySweden
Asia2 regions
native (2)IranTurkey
Broader regions
native:East Aegean Is., Transcaucasus
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Boraginaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Boraginaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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Back to the cataloguePlant id · 036b5278-a2cb-493e-9877-5fc101ca6178
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