Strawberry Spinach in a white dish and surround on a white background.
Hands holding Strawberry Spinach with bright red berries in a greenhouse at Baker Creek.
A macro view of Strawberry Spinach berries growing on the plant in the greenhouse at Baker Creek.
A man in a tunic holding some Strawberry Spinach stems loaded with berries.
Strawberry Spinach in a white dish and surround on a white background.
Hands holding Strawberry Spinach with bright red berries in a greenhouse at Baker Creek.
A macro view of Strawberry Spinach berries growing on the plant in the greenhouse at Baker Creek.
A man in a tunic holding some Strawberry Spinach stems loaded with berries.

Spinach Seeds,
Strawberry

3.846 ReviewsSKU: #GR107Min. seed count: 40
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Description

(Chenopodium capitatum). An old-fashioned plant poised for a comeback! Native to moist mountain valleys of North America, it is also popular in Europe dating back to the 1600s. The plants are fascinating; the arrow-shaped leaves remind us it is a relative of spinach, and the flavor and nutritional profile are reminiscent of spinach as well. Its small, bright red berries may be its most intriguing quality! Young underripe berries are mild flavored and appropriate for salads and savory applications. Allow the berries to fully ripen to a deep crimson for juicy, sweet flavor. We find the ripe berries to have a watermelon-berry flavor, addictive for snacking and irresistible for desserts. Like its spinach cousin, the leaves are high in oxalates, so those with sensitivities to oxalates should take note. The delicious edible berries contain small seeds that in very large quantity may have some toxic effects but are considered perfectly safe when consumed in relative moderation. The very easy-to-grow and adaptable plants readily self seed and grow in a similar fashion to their wild cousin, lamb's quarters.  The original seeds for this particular variety were found in a monastery garden in Europe. The leaves are a good source of vitamins C and A!

Growing Tips: Strawberry spinach is a cool-weather annual that is easy to grow and can tolerate a range of conditions. It prefers full sun to partial shade and grows best in rich, well-drained soil. Make sure that the plant receives at least 8 hours of sunlight daily.

Plant Details

Botanical Name
Chenopodium capitatum
Life Cycle
Annual
Sun Requirement
8–12 hr.
Days to Germinate
7–14
Days to Maturity
90
Planting Depth
¼ in.
Plant Spacing
12 in.
Ideal Temperature
45–75°F
Frost Hardy
Yes

When to Grow

Strawberry spinach can be planted several weeks before the last frost of spring and succession-planted until midsummer. This plant is frost-tolerant but prefers cooler growing conditions. If you’re not sure how to find your area's first and last frost dates, consult our blog post 'Our Experts Answer Questions, Share Resources.'

How to Sow and Plant

Direct sowing is recommended since strawberry spinach does not transplant well. Sow the seeds about 1/4 inch deep and 1-2 inches apart in rows spaced 16-18 inches apart. Once the seedlings develop two sets of true leaves, thin them to about 12 inches apart to give each plant enough room to grow. The seeds require moist soil and full sun for optimal growth. They can also be grown in containers with well-drained soil​.

How to Grow

Strawberry spinach grows best in well-drained, loamy soil rich in organic matter, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.5. Regular watering is important to keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging, which can cause root rot. Mulching can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. This plant is a light feeder, so a monthly application of compost or a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer is sufficient. Harvest red berries in summer to early fall. Remove spent blooms to prevent seed formation, and control spreading.

How to Save Seeds

  • These plants very easily self sow, and one can ensure a steady supply of plants for next season simply by allowing the fruit to mature and remain on the plant, as the seeds will drop and self sow.
  • If you would like to save your own Chenopodium capitatum seeds, simply allow the berries to mature and become very soft.
  • Spread the small seeds on a paper towel and allow to dry.
  • Save seeds in a cool, dark, dry location and sealed in a zipper-lock bag or glass jar.

FAQ

Can Strawberry spinach tolerate heat?

While it prefers cooler weather, strawberry spinach is more heat-tolerant than traditional spinach and can continue growing into summer or be planted in fall in warmer climates.

Are the fruits of Strawberry spinach edible?

Yes. Young underripe berries are mild flavored and suit salads, and fully ripe crimson berries are juicy and sweet. Eat them in moderation: the berries contain small seeds that in very large quantity may have some toxic effects, and like its spinach cousin, the leaves are high in oxalates.

What pests or diseases should I watch out for?

Strawberry spinach may occasionally attract aphids, spider mites, and slugs. It is generally disease-resistant but can be susceptible to fungal issues like powdery mildew if the plants are overcrowded or the leaves stay wet for extended periods.

Browse our full range of spinach seeds.

Customer reviews

3.8 / 5 46 Reviews

What gardeners are saying

  • Pretty red berries: Bright red berries stand out in beds and salads.

  • Comes back every year: Self-sows freely; plant once and expect volunteers.

  • Mild, divisive flavor: Berries taste of sweet spinach and beet; some find them bland.

  • Pests leave it alone: Few bug, deer or bird problems reported.

  • Heads up: Tiny seeds; some report slow or spotty germination.

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