Spreading Orach (Atriplex patula)

Family: Chenopodiaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Atriplex patula is a ANNUAL growing to 0.8 m (2ft 7in). It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind, insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in heavy clay soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

flavour, a few leaves of stronger-flavoured plants can be added to enhance the taste. — Young leaves - raw or cooked as a spinach substitute.; A fairly bland flavour, a few leaves of stronger-flavoured plants can be added to enhance the taste.; Seed - ground and mixed with cornmeal or used to thicken soups etc.; Small and very fiddly to harvest and use.

Habitat & North American Range

Waste and arable land near the coast, it is usually found on clays and heavy ground. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)