SPINACH ‘Warrigal Green’ Vegetable Seeds
Botanical Name: Tetragonia tetragonioides
Warrigal Greens, also known as New Zealand Spinach, is a hardy perennial leafy green ideal for warm and coastal climates. This spreading ground cover produces thick, fleshy leaves with a mild, spinach-like taste—great for salads, steaming, or stir-fries. As a native species, it thrives in poor soils and dry conditions, making it perfect for water-wise gardens and permaculture plots.
Why Grow Warrigal Greens?
- Perennial, heat-loving spinach alternative for year-round picking.
- Rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and minerals.
- Grows vigorously and suppresses weeds as a ground cover.
- Highly drought-tolerant once established.
- Harvest continually—ideal for home cooks and food forests.
Growing Instructions
- Soak seeds in warm water overnight to improve germination.
- Direct sow or start in trays and transplant after frost risk has passed.
- Plant in full sun or part shade in well-drained soil.
- Mulch to retain moisture during hot periods.
- Blanch leaves briefly before eating to reduce oxalate content.
Plant Details:
Plant Type: Perennial leafy green, spreading up to 1 metre
Sowing Information:
- Germination: 10 – 20 days
- Depth: Sow 1 – 2 cm deep
- Position: Full sun to part shade
- Sow Where: Direct in garden beds or containers
- Soil Type: Well-drained soil enriched with compost (pH 6 – 7)
- Spacing: 30 – 40 cm between plants
When to Sow Warrigal Greens in New Zealand:
| NZ Region | Sowing Window | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| North Island – Upper (e.g. Auckland, Northland, Bay of Plenty) | August – March | Sow direct or transplant after frost. Grows year-round in frost-free areas. |
| North Island – Lower (e.g. Wellington, Taranaki) | September – February | Start after last frost. Provide some shelter in exposed areas. |
| South Island – Northern (e.g. Nelson, Marlborough) | October – January | Best planted in spring. Protect seedlings from strong winds. |
| South Island – Central & Southern (e.g. Canterbury, Otago) | October – December | Plant in warm, sheltered microclimates or use cloches. |
Growing Tips for New Zealand Gardeners:
- Soak seeds overnight and sow in warm soil for better germination.
- Cut outer leaves as needed—plant will continue to grow and spread.
- Harvest regularly to encourage compact, bushy growth.
- Light blanching removes oxalates and improves digestibility.
Harvest:
Harvest from 50 – 70 days after sowing. Pick individual leaves continuously for several months.
