King's Salad
chenopodium giganteum
Also known as: ["Tree Spinach","Giant Orache"]
Overview
A large annual plant with vibrant purple stems and leaves, often grown for ornamental purposes or as a leafy vegetable.
Benefits & Perks
["fast growing","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","drought tolerant"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Chenopodium |
| Botanical Name: | Chenopodium giganteum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Leaf Plants
- Suitable Location: garden bed or large container in a sunny spot
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"10–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"8–10"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Rich, well-draining soil with organic matter; a mix of potting soil, compost, and perlite works well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed, but generally every 2–3 months during the growing season.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily); adjust for intense summer heat by providing some afternoon shade.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate plants gradually to intense sunlight; protect from scorching by providing shade during peak hours; for indoor placement, use a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easymoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid placing near heat sources that can intensify light.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage to prevent fungal issues.
Soil
well-draining, fertile loam with moderate organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix that retains moisture but drains well; avoid heavy clay soils; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Prefers warm temperatures (65–85°F / 18–29°C); tolerates mild frosts but thrives in moderate warmth.
Avoid sudden temperature fluctuations; maintain consistent warmth; protect from drafts.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during growing season with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer to moist soil to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing if plant shows signs of over-fertilization.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings are faster and more reliable for home growers.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting below a leaf node.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone (optional).
- Plant in moist medium or water.
- Keep warm and humid.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain consistent moisture in the medium.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix (e.g., peat moss, perlite, and sand) or water for initial rooting.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is optional but recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots typically develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth may appear in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, well-draining medium, plastic wrap or propagator.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; maintain high humidity until roots form; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage branching; cut just above a leaf node or bud.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove dead or diseased foliage.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp knife, gloves.
Checklist
Use clean tools; prune during active growth; remove dead or yellowing leaves; shape as desired.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot one size larger (1–2 inches wider in diameter) than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for larger specimens to maintain vigor.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot size; prepare fresh soil mix; handle roots carefully; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone; allow excess water to drain away; water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and fungal growth.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or coarse sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure soil is loose and airy.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or leaf drop in extreme heat or cold.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, may cause leaf discoloration, and can lead to root damage in prolonged cold.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; cover with a frost cloth if temperatures drop below 50°F (10°C); avoid overwatering in cold conditions.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, curl, or scorch; growth may slow due to excessive heat.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase watering frequency; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer); avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats are susceptible to gastrointestinal irritation and methemoglobinemia from ingesting Chenopodium giganteum due to its oxalate and nitrate content. Cats may be more sensitive to these compounds compared to other animals.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicDogs may experience mild gastrointestinal upset due to the oxalates and nitrates present in Chenopodium giganteum. Prolonged or excessive ingestion could lead to more severe symptoms, including methemoglobinemia, which reduces oxygen-carrying capacity in the blood.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicChenopodium giganteum contains oxalates and nitrates, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress and metabolic disturbances when ingested in significant quantities. The plant's high nitrate content may lead to methemoglobinemia, particularly in sensitive individuals or when consumed raw.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chenopodium giganteum edible?
A: Yes, its leaves and stems are edible when cooked, but should be consumed in moderation due to mild toxicity.
Q: How tall does Chenopodium giganteum grow?
A: It can grow up to 6 feet tall under optimal conditions.
Q: Does Chenopodium giganteum require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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