Beta vulgaris cicla Spinach beet (Chenopodiaceae)

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Beta vulgaris cicla
Spinach beet
(1 Page of 5)

The Beta vulgaris cicla plant species is found in A cultivated form of B. vulgaris maritima that is grown for its edible leaves. It is a member of the Chenopodiaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Spinach beet.

Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

Latin Name:  Beta vulgaris cicla
Common Name:  Spinach beet
Family:  Chenopodiaceae
Author:  (L.)Koch.

Known Hazards:  None known

Mature Height:  0.9   Mature Width:

Habitat:  Not known in a truly wild situation.

Cultivation Notes: Succeeds in sun or light shade in moist soils but prefers a rich well-drained light neutral to alkaline soil[33, 37]. Does best in a pH between 6 and 6.8[200]. Tolerates a pH in the range 4.8 to 8.3. Spinach beet is often cultivated by gardeners for its edible leaves[16], it does not make a very good commercial crop since the leaves quickly droop after being harvested and so do not stand the journey to market. This plant is a good hot weather substitute for spinach[183]. The leaves are available all year round from successional sowings if the winters are not too severe[K]. In severe winters it is possible to dig up some plants and move them to a protected area such as a greenhouse in order to produce fresh leaves[1]. Plants usually self-sow freely if they are well-sited and the ground is disturbed by hoeing etc[K]. A good companion for dwarf beans, onions and kohl rabi[18]. Its growth is inhibited by runner beans, charlock and field mustard[18].

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Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses
Medicinal | Edible Uses

The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'.
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