Close up of New Zealand Spinach leaves on a white background.
Close-up of New Zealand Spinach leaves and cut spinach in a silver bowl on wood background.
New Zealand Spinach growing in a greenhouse at the Baker Creek farm in Mansfield, Missouri.
New Zealand Spinach in a hand thrown ceramic pot on a light background.
Close up of New Zealand Spinach leaves on a white background.
Close-up of New Zealand Spinach leaves and cut spinach in a silver bowl on wood background.
New Zealand Spinach growing in a greenhouse at the Baker Creek farm in Mansfield, Missouri.
New Zealand Spinach in a hand thrown ceramic pot on a light background.

Spinach Seeds,
New Zealand

3.939 ReviewsSKU: #SP102Min. seed count: 50
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Description

(Tetragonia tetragonioides). Not the same species as common spinach, this variety takes the heat and keeps producing all summer. Was listed by Fearing Burr in 1863 in his book Field and Garden Vegetables of America. Not frost hardy.

Growing Tips:New Zealand spinach is a warm-season leafy green that grows best in hot weather, unlike traditional spinach. It requires 6-12 hours of sun, and prefers temperatures of 55-75 F. This plant grows as a perennial in warmer climates but is often treated as an annual in cooler regions.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Tetragonia tetragonioides
Life Cycle
Tender perennial
Sun Requirement
6–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
14–21
Days to Maturity
60
Planting Depth
½ in.
Plant Spacing
1–2 in.
Ideal Temperature
55–75°F
Frost Hardy
No

When to Grow

New Zealand spinach should be planted after all danger of frost has passed, typically in late spring. It can tolerate the heat well, continuing to grow when regular spinach would bolt. In milder climates, it can be grown year-round​.

How to Sow and Plant

Sow seeds directly in the garden or start them indoors 2-3 weeks before the last frost date. Plant the seeds 1/2 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart. Soaking seeds for 24 hours before planting can help speed up germination​.

How to Grow

New Zealand spinach grows in full sun but can benefit from some shade during the hottest parts of the day in warmer climates. It prefers well-draining soil rich in organic matter, with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Regular watering ensures that the leaves are tender and prevents the plants from wilting. Applying mulch around the base of the plants helps retain soil moisture and reduce weeds.

How to Save Seeds

  • In spring, plants will grow tall and bloom (or bolt) as soon as the days are longer than 14 hours. Heat also speeds up bolting, since spinach prefers temperatures between 35 and 75 degrees.
  • Commercial spinach seed crops are separated by 5-10 miles. Spinach pollen is so fine that it easily penetrates mesh screening, but is severely restricted by spun polyester fabric.
  • Plants are either male or female. Maintain a ratio of one male to two female plants, though this is hard to determine until the seed stalks have formed. Close plantings in wide beds will provide the greatest chance that the ratio will be hit.
  • Starting at the bottom of the plants, strip off the seeds (using gloves for the prickly type) in an upward motion, letting them fall into a bag.
  • Allow to completely dry and store.
  • They will retain 50% germination for up to 5 years when stored in ideal conditions (cool, dry, and dark).

FAQ

Can New Zealand spinach tolerate frost?

No, unlike most spinach varieties, it is not cold-hardy and will die back in hard frosts​.

How often should New Zealand spinach be watered?

Regular watering is essential. Aim for about 1 inch of water per week, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged​.

Can New Zealand spinach be grown in containers?

Yes, it can be grown in containers, making it a good option for small gardens​.
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