Edible Green Leaves
Produces broad, tender leaves with a mild flavor similar to spinach.
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Mercury Goosefoot, commonly known as Good King Henry or Perennial Goosefoot, is a traditional edible perennial plant grown for its nutritious, spinach-like leaves and tender spring shoots. It features broad, arrow-shaped green leaves and small greenish-yellow flowers. This useful plant is suitable for vegetable gardens, herb gardens, and partially shaded growing areas.
Produces broad, tender leaves with a mild flavor similar to spinach.
Returns year after year once established, providing a continuing supply of edible greens.
Produces young spring shoots that can be harvested and prepared like asparagus.
Grows well in partially shaded locations with fertile soil and consistent moisture.
| Scientific Name | Blitum bonus-henricus (syn. Chenopodium bonus-henricus) |
| Common Name | Mercury Goosefoot; Good King Henry; Perennial Goosefoot |
| Plant Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Seed Type | Vegetable Seeds / Edible Perennial Greens |
| Plant Type | Herbaceous Perennial |
| Growth Habit | Upright, bushy growth |
| Leaf Color | Medium to dark green |
| Flower Color | Greenish-yellow |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | 4–8 |
| Planting Season | Spring or fall |
| Seed Starting | Direct sow or start in containers; cold stratification can improve germination |
| Germination Time | Approximately 14–30 days; may be slower or uneven |
| Germination Temperature | 60–70°F |
| Sunlight | Partial shade to full sun |
| Soil Requirements | Fertile, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil |
| Watering | Regular watering; avoid allowing soil to dry out completely |
| Harvest Season | Spring to summer, depending on growing conditions |
| Mature Plant Size | Approximately 1–3 feet tall |
| Plant Spacing | 12–18 inches |
Mercury Goosefoot is a valuable perennial vegetable for gardeners interested in traditional edible plants. Its spinach-like leaves and tender spring shoots make it a useful addition to home vegetable and herb gardens. Provide fertile soil, consistent moisture, and suitable sunlight for healthy plant growth.
Discover useful information about Good King Henry seed germination, edible shoots, and perennial growing.
Good King Henry seeds can germinate slowly and unevenly. Cold stratification may improve germination. Sow the seeds in moist, well-drained growing medium and maintain moderate temperatures around 60–70°F. Germination can take several weeks depending on seed freshness and growing conditions.
Yes. Good King Henry is a traditional edible perennial vegetable. Its young leaves can be prepared like spinach, while tender spring shoots can be cooked similarly to asparagus. Mature leaves are generally best cooked rather than eaten raw. Consume in moderation because the plant contains naturally occurring oxalates.
Yes. Good King Henry is a hardy perennial that returns from its established root system each year. It produces fresh leaves in spring and can provide repeated harvests over multiple growing seasons. Allow plants to establish during the first year before harvesting heavily.