Edible Green Leaves
Produces tender green leaves that can be harvested young and cooked as a spinach-like vegetable.
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Good King Henry, also known as Lincolnshire Spinach or Perennial Goosefoot, is a traditional edible perennial plant valued for its nutritious green leaves and tender young shoots. Its arrow-shaped foliage can be harvested and cooked like spinach, while its young spring shoots are commonly prepared as an asparagus alternative. This hardy vegetable is suitable for vegetable gardens, herb gardens, and selected containers. Once established, it can provide edible foliage over multiple growing seasons.
Produces tender green leaves that can be harvested young and cooked as a spinach-like vegetable.
Develops as a hardy perennial plant that can return season after season when grown in suitable conditions.
Produces young spring shoots that can be harvested and prepared as an alternative to asparagus.
Features distinctive broad, green, goosefoot-shaped leaves that add attractive foliage to vegetable gardens.
| Scientific Name | Blitum bonus-henricus (syn. Chenopodium bonus-henricus) |
| Common Name | Good King Henry; Lincolnshire Spinach; Perennial Goosefoot |
| Plant Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Seed Type | Edible Vegetable Seeds |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous Perennial |
| Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming growth |
| Foliage Color | Medium to dark green |
| Flower Color | Greenish-yellow |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Approximately Zones 3–8, depending on growing conditions |
| Planting Season | Spring or autumn, depending on climate and seed preparation |
| Seed Starting | Direct sowing or starting in pots; cold stratification may improve germination |
| Germination Time | Approximately 15–30 days under suitable conditions; may take longer |
| Germination Temperature | Approximately 15–21°C (59–70°F) |
| Sunlight | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Requirements | Fertile, humus-rich, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil |
| Watering | Regular watering to maintain consistent soil moisture |
| Mature Plant Height | Approximately 50–100 cm |
| Plant Spacing | Approximately 25–35 cm between plants |
| Harvest Period | Young leaves and shoots, primarily during spring and summer |
Good King Henry is a valuable perennial vegetable for gardeners interested in growing traditional edible greens. Its spinach-like leaves and tender asparagus-like shoots offer versatile culinary uses, while its hardy perennial growth makes it a rewarding addition to suitable vegetable gardens. Provide fertile soil, consistent moisture, and appropriate sunlight to encourage healthy plant development.
Discover helpful information about Good King Henry seed germination, edible shoots, and perennial vegetable growing.
Good King Henry seeds can have natural dormancy that makes germination slow or irregular. Cold stratification by keeping the seeds in suitable cool, moist conditions before sowing can help improve germination. Follow the seed supplier's recommended preparation method for better results.
Yes, the young spring shoots of established Good King Henry plants can be harvested and cooked as an asparagus alternative. They are traditionally prepared by cutting the tender shoots and cooking them before serving. Avoid heavy harvesting from young plants so they have enough time to establish.
Good King Henry is a slow-establishing perennial vegetable, so it is best to allow the plants to develop strong roots and healthy foliage before harvesting heavily. Light harvesting can begin once plants are established, with tender young leaves commonly collected during spring and summer.