Good King Henry (Chenopodium bonus-henricus)

Family: Chenopodiaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Chenopodium bonus-henricus is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.3 m (1ft) by 0.3 m (1ft in). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from May to July, and the seeds ripen from June to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves, Shoots, Flowers

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

pleasant spring vegetable. — Young leaves - raw or cooked.; The leaves wilt quickly after picking and so they need to be used as soon after harvesting as possible.; They can be used as a potherb.; The leaves are best in spring and early summer, the older leaves become tough and bitter.

Habitat & North American Range

Rich pastures, farmyards, roadsides etc. (Zone 4, Zone 5, Zone 6, Zone 7, Zone 8)