Description

Purple Orach, also known as mountain spinach, is a vibrant, open-pollinated leafy green prized for its deep purple foliage and mild, spinach-like flavor. This eye-catching plant produces tender, velvety leaves that range from rich burgundy to dark purple, adding dramatic color to both the garden and the plate.

Mild, slightly earthy, and less prone to bolting than traditional spinach, Purple Orach is excellent for fresh salads, sautéing, and cooking. Its upright growth habit and bold color also make it a standout in edible landscapes and mixed plantings.

• Type: Open-pollinated annual
• Direct sow: Early spring or late summer for fall harvest
• Sun: Full sun to partial shade
• Spacing: 6–12 inches
• Height: 24–48 inches
• Days to harvest: 30–40 days (baby greens), 50–60 days full size

Orach thrives in cool to moderate conditions and tolerates a range of soils, as long as they are well-drained. Sow seeds directly and keep soil evenly moist during establishment. Harvest young leaves for best texture, or allow plants to mature for larger harvests. Regular picking encourages continued growth.

Additional information