Family: Amaranthaceae
Author: D.Don
Bibliography: Prodr. Fl. Nepal.: 75 (1825)
Year: 1825
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Chenopodium
Vegetable: False
Observations: Himalaya to Korea
Description
Tree spinach, scientifically known as Chenopodium giganteum, is a striking and versatile plant that has garnered attention both for its nutritional value and its ornamental appeal. Described in 1825 by the botanist D. Don in the seminal work Prodr. Fl. Nepal., this hardy species is primarily found in regions ranging from the Himalayas to Korea.
Belonging to the Amaranthaceae family, Tree spinach is distinguished by its rapid growth and large, vibrant leaves, which are often tinged with shades of pink and purple, making it an attractive addition to any garden. Besides its aesthetic appeal, Chenopodium giganteum is highly valued for its young leaves, which can be consumed either raw or cooked. These leaves are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to its reputation as a nutrient-dense leafy green.
In traditional practices across its native range, the leaves of Tree spinach are often utilized in cooking, particularly in soups, stews, and stir-fries. Its mild flavor and tender texture are comparable to that of spinach, making it a versatile ingredient in various culinary dishes. Furthermore, due to its rapid and robust growth, it serves as an excellent plant for gardeners looking to cultivate a hardy, nutritious green with minimal care.
Chenopodium giganteum is also of interest to researchers and horticulturists who study its adaptability and potential benefits. Its resilience in diverse climates and soils makes it a promising candidate for sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in regions facing food security challenges.
In conclusion, Tree spinach, or Chenopodium giganteum, is much more than an eye-catching plant; it is a powerhouse of nutrition and versatility, cherished in both culinary and ornamental gardening circles. Originating from the majestic ranges of the Himalayas and extending to Korea, this member of the Amaranthaceae family continues to be a subject of admiration and utility for both its practical and decorative qualities.
Common Names
Spa: cenizo gigante
Dan: kæmpe-gåsefod
Deu: riesen- gänsefuß, riesen-gänsefuß, spinatbaum
Eng: tree spinach, magentaspreen, tree-spinach, tree spinnach
Swe: praktmålla, jättemålla
Nld: boomspinazie
Cym: troed-yr-ŵydd mawr
En: Tree Spinach, Magentaspreen, Tree-spinach, Tree Spinnach, Magenta Spreen Lambsquart, Purple Goosefoot
Da: Kæmpe-gåsefod
Nl: Boomspinazie
Fr: Chénopode couleur d’amarante
De: Riesen- Gänsefuß, Riesen-Gänsefuß, Spinatbaum
It: Farinello color amaranto
Es: Cenizo gigante
Sv: Praktmålla, Jättemålla
Cy: Troed-yr-Ŵydd Mawr
: Tree spinach
Synonyms
- Chenopodium rubricaule (Schrad. ex Moq.)
- Chenopodium amaranticolor ((H.J.Coste & A.Reyn.) H.J.Coste & A.Reyn.)
- Chenopodium centrorubrum ((Makino) Nakai)
- Atriplex bengalensis (Lam.)
- Chenopodium bengalense ((Lam.) Spielm. ex Steud.)
- Chenopodium album subsp. amaranthicolor (H.J.Coste & A.Reyn.)
- Chenopodium hookerianum (Moq.)
- Chenopodium album var. centrorubrum (Makino)
- Atriplex hortensis var. benghalensis ((Lam.) Moq.)
- Chenopodium formosanum (Koidz.)
- Chenopodium mairei (H.Lév.)
- Chenopodium elegantissimum (Koidz.)
Distribution
- China North-Central (native)
- East Himalaya (native)
- Manchuria (native)
- Nepal (native)
- Primorye (native)
- Tibet (native)
- West Himalaya (native)
- Algeria (introduced)
- Argentina Northeast (introduced)
- Argentina Northwest (introduced)
- Austria (introduced)
- Canary Is. (introduced)
- Cape Provinces (introduced)
- China South-Central (introduced)
- Cuba (introduced)
- East Aegean Is. (introduced)
- Egypt (introduced)
- France (introduced)
- Free State (introduced)
- Great Britain (introduced)
- Greece (introduced)
- India (introduced)
- Inner Mongolia (introduced)
- Iran (introduced)
- Italy (introduced)
- Japan (introduced)
- Korea (introduced)
- Kriti (introduced)
- Libya (introduced)
- Madeira (introduced)
- Morocco (introduced)
- New Zealand North (introduced)
- New Zealand South (introduced)
- Northern Provinces (introduced)
- Philippines (introduced)
- Sicilia (introduced)
- Swaziland (introduced)
- Taiwan (introduced)
- Tunisia (introduced)
- Zimbabwe (introduced)
Additional Images
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Leaf
Taken Apr 10, 2022 by witt1 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 14, 2022 by Viviane Schell (cc-by-sa)
Taken Aug 16, 2022 by González Rodríguez Juan Carlos (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 10, 2022 by witt1 (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 10, 2022 by witt1 (cc-by-sa)
Flower
Taken Nov 21, 2021 by Georg Jurceka (cc-by-sa)
Taken Oct 2, 2022 by Goulidan Finch (cc-by-sa)
Taken Nov 21, 2021 by Georg Jurceka (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 31, 2022 by giada rossi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jun 12, 2022 by Anne De Mees (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Sep 9, 2022 by KP Laer (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 25, 2020 by Bent Callewier (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 25, 2020 by Bent Callewier (cc-by-sa)
Taken Jul 2, 2022 by David Sedlák (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 21, 2021 by Barberousse (cc-by-sa)
Taken Mar 12, 2021 by Martin Austin (cc-by-sa)
Other
Taken Jul 31, 2022 by Karsten Hoffmeyer (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 24, 2019 by Noé Simler (cc-by-sa)
Fruit
Taken Sep 17, 2022 by Marcelo Gerlach (cc-by-sa)
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/3756077)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:164949-1)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Chenopodium giganteum D.Don)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb
Growth
Ph maximum: 8.0
Ph minimum: 7.5
Light: 8
Atmospheric humidity: 3
Bloom months: [‘jun’, ‘jul’, ‘aug’, ‘sep’, ‘oct’]
Soil nutriments: 8
