Spinach
Spinacia oleracea
Botanical family: Amaranthaceae (formerly Chenopodiaceae)
Spinacia oleracea, native to Persia (Iran), introduced to Europe in the 9th century by the Arabs. Varieties: Géant d'hiver (hardy), Matador (spring), Monstrueux de Viroflay (large-leaved). Sow February-April and August-September, harvest 6-8 weeks later. Rich in folates, iron, vitamin K. Contains oxalates (to eat in moderation in case of kidney stones).
Partial shade
Rich, cool
Regular
Fairly hardy annual: young plants withstand about -9 °C; to overwinter, grow a winter variety under fleece
Sown in autumn, protect over winter in your zone
Role in permaculture
A member of the Amaranthaceae (formerly Chenopodiaceae) of the half-seasons (spring and autumn) that tolerates summer heat poorly (bolting). Not mycorrhizal. To slip between two longer crops, a good cycle-opener. Avoid repetition (leaf spot).
Good companions
Fix nitrogen from the air (legumes)
Trap plants (variable effect, need watching)
Traditional companion planting (benefit not demonstrated)
Poor companions
Same family: shared diseases and pests
Allelopathy, reputed or observed: may slow some neighbours
Seasons & availability
Spring and autumn spinach, sometimes mild in winter.
Available: March, April, May, September, October, November, December.
Guidance for the oceanic / temperate climate; it may vary with your region, altitude, exposure and growing method.
Sources
- RHS, « How to Grow Spinach » (rhs.org.uk/vegetables/spinach/grow-your-own)
- La Ferme de Sainte Marthe, « Réussir la culture de l'épinard » (fermedesaintemarthe.com/en/blogs/comment-reussir-la-culture-de/reussir-la-culture-de-lepinard)
Nutritional & medicinal properties
For educational purposes. Not a substitute for medical advice. Effects depend on the form, the dose and personal context.
Precautions & contraindications
Rich in oxalates; caution in some people prone to certain types of kidney stones.
Family behaviour: Amaranthaceae
In general, Amaranthaceae bring together leaves and roots of the same kinship (beetroot, chard, spinach, plus quinoa and amaranth). Often tolerant of poor or slightly salty soils, a legacy of their ancestors from harsh habitats, they are rather hungry for well-rotted organic matter and dislike fresh manure.
Understanding families means learning one rule per family rather than every pairing one by one. Learn more →
Species & varieties
The best-known species and varieties in France.