Strawberry Blite
chenopodium capitatum
Also known as: ["Blite Spinach","Cockroach Weed"]
Overview
A herbaceous annual plant with edible leaves and reddish-purple inflorescences resembling strawberries.
Benefits & Perks
["edible fruits","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","low maintenance"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Caryophyllales |
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus: | Chenopodium |
| Botanical Name: | Chenopodium capitata |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Herbs & Weeds
- Suitable Location: garden bed or container in a location with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"3–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with added organic matter; cactus mix can work well.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: low
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: As needed; lightly prune throughout the growing season to remove spent flowers or damaged foliage.
- Pruning Intensity: Light to moderate; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary to control size.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate partial shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun to prevent scorching; move indoors during extreme heat or cold; place near east-facing windows for optimal light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
easyeasy
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun.
Watering
every 7–10 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure proper drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
Soil
well-draining, fertile garden soil with added organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Use a mix of potting soil and perlite; avoid heavy clay soils; ensure pots have drainage holes.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but not frost; thrives in moderate climates.
Avoid drafts; maintain stable temperatures; protect from sudden temperature swings.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with balanced liquid fertilizer
Apply fertilizer after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; stop fertilizing when plant is dormant.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings or seeds; stem cuttings root easily in water or soil.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take a 4–6 inch cutting.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or soil.
- Keep moist and warm.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when plant is actively growing.
Environment
Warm, humid environment with indirect light; maintain 70–75°F (21–24°C) for best results.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix or water for cuttings; perlite can improve aeration.
Hormone
Optional but can speed up rooting; rooting powder or gel is recommended.
Timeline
Roots develop in 2–4 weeks; new growth appears in 4–6 weeks.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone (optional), small pots, water or soil medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, non-flowering stems; change water every few days if using water propagation; maintain humidity with a plastic bag if needed.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Pinch back tips to encourage bushiness; snip off dead or diseased parts with clean cuts.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or yellowing leaves to encourage new growth; shape plant to maintain compact form.
Tools
Pruning shears, sharp scissors, disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Clean tools; remove dead/damaged parts; shape plant; disinfect tools after use.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Spring, before the active growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if crowded; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water lightly.
Suggestions
Repot every 1–2 years or when roots fill the pot; beneficial for young plants to support growth.
Checklist
Prepare new pot with drainage; gently remove plant; trim roots if needed; add fresh soil; water lightly.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting leaves.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water directly at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; allow excess to drain fully; water in the morning to reduce evaporation.
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 sand for drainage; incorporate compost for fertility; ensure good aeration.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Wilting, yellowing leaves, or stunted growth in extreme heat or cold; bud drop in stress conditions.
Cold Stress
Growth slows or halts; leaves may turn purple or brown; risk of frost damage below 32°F (0°C).
Solution: Move to a warmer location; use a heat mat for seedlings; cover outdoor plants during frost warnings.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop; growth may become leggy; flowers may fail to set.
Solution: Provide shade during peak sun; increase humidity with misting; ensure consistent watering.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use diluted fertilizer; apply during active growth; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season; avoid fertilizing in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicChenopodium capitatum is not known to be toxic to cats. The plant does not pose a significant risk to feline health.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicChenopodium capitatum is not known to be toxic to dogs. The plant is not associated with any significant adverse effects in canines.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Humans
Non-toxicChenopodium capitatum, commonly known as strawberry blite or strawberry spinach, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. It is occasionally consumed as a leafy green or in salads.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally non-toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Chenopodium capitatum edible?
A: Yes, the leaves are edible and can be used like spinach, while the inflorescences are also edible.
Q: Does this plant attract wildlife?
A: Yes, it attracts bees, butterflies, and birds due to its flowers.
Q: Is it toxic to pets?
A: It is mildly toxic to dogs and cats, so ingestion should be avoided.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Amaranthaceae |
| Care: | easy |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days, allowing so |
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