Edible Spring Shoots
Produces tender young spring shoots that can be harvested and prepared similarly to traditional asparagus.
Poor Man's Asparagus Seeds for Sale
Suitable for home gardening use
Regular price
Rs. 17.88 INR
Sale price
Rs. 17.88 INR
Regular price
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Product description
Poor Man's Asparagus Seeds
Poor Man's Asparagus, commonly known as Good King Henry or perennial spinach, is a traditional edible perennial vegetable valued for its tender spring shoots and nutritious green leaves. Botanically known as Blitum bonus-henricus, this hardy plant has been cultivated in kitchen gardens for generations. Its young shoots can be harvested and cooked like asparagus, while its leaves can be prepared similarly to spinach. It is an excellent choice for kitchen gardens, raised beds, and perennial vegetable gardens.
Good King Henry
Edible Perennial Vegetable
Asparagus-Like Shoots
Spinach-Like Leaves
Key Features
Spinach-Like Leaves
Develops broad, green leaves that can be cooked and enjoyed as a leafy vegetable in various recipes.
Hardy Perennial Growth
Returns year after year once established, making it a useful addition to long-term vegetable gardens.
Traditional Kitchen Garden Plant
A heritage vegetable suitable for kitchen gardens, raised beds, and gardeners interested in perennial edible crops.
Product Highlights
Traditional Good King Henry vegetable
Tender edible spring shoots
Broad green edible foliage
Hardy perennial vegetable plant
Suitable for kitchen gardens
Can grow in partial shade
Returns year after year
Ideal for heritage vegetable gardens
Specifications
| Scientific Name | Blitum bonus-henricus (syn. Chenopodium bonus-henricus) |
| Common Name | Poor Man's Asparagus; Good King Henry; Lincolnshire Spinach |
| Plant Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Plant Type | Edible Perennial Vegetable |
| Seed Type | Open-Pollinated Vegetable Seeds |
| Growth Habit | Upright, clump-forming herbaceous perennial |
| Flower Color | Small greenish flowers |
| USDA Hardiness Zones | Approximately 4–8, depending on growing conditions |
| Planting Season | Spring or fall, depending on local climate |
| Seed Starting | Direct sowing or indoor starting; follow supplier-specific seed instructions |
| Germination Time | Approximately 14–30 days under suitable conditions; may vary |
| Germination Temperature | Approximately 15–21°C (59–70°F) |
| Sunlight | Full sun to partial shade |
| Soil Requirements | Fertile, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil rich in organic matter |
| Watering | Regular watering to maintain consistent soil moisture |
| Mature Plant Height | Approximately 1–2.5 feet, depending on growing conditions |
| Plant Spacing | Approximately 12–18 inches between plants |
| Harvest | Young spring shoots and tender leaves after plants are established |
Growing Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Seeds
Check the seed supplier's germination instructions before planting. Some Good King Henry seeds benefit from a period of cold stratification to improve germination.
Check the seed supplier's germination instructions before planting. Some Good King Henry seeds benefit from a period of cold stratification to improve germination.
Step 2: Prepare the Soil
Choose a garden bed or suitable container with fertile, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil. Incorporate organic matter to support healthy root development.
Choose a garden bed or suitable container with fertile, moisture-retentive, well-drained soil. Incorporate organic matter to support healthy root development.
Step 3: Sow the Seeds
Sow the seeds according to the supplier's recommended depth and spacing. Keep the growing medium consistently moist during germination.
Sow the seeds according to the supplier's recommended depth and spacing. Keep the growing medium consistently moist during germination.
Step 4: Provide Proper Growing Conditions
Place the plants in full sun or partial shade. Water regularly and maintain suitable soil moisture, especially during dry weather.
Place the plants in full sun or partial shade. Water regularly and maintain suitable soil moisture, especially during dry weather.
Step 5: Maintain and Harvest
Allow the plants to establish before harvesting. Collect a limited number of tender spring shoots and young leaves, leaving enough growth for the perennial plant to remain healthy.
Allow the plants to establish before harvesting. Collect a limited number of tender spring shoots and young leaves, leaving enough growth for the perennial plant to remain healthy.
Grow a Traditional Vegetable with Poor Man's Asparagus
Bring a traditional edible perennial into your garden with Poor Man's Asparagus. Known for its tender spring shoots and spinach-like leaves, Good King Henry is a rewarding addition to kitchen gardens and perennial vegetable beds. With fertile soil, consistent moisture, and proper seasonal care, you can enjoy this heritage vegetable for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore helpful answers about growing Poor Man's Asparagus, its edible shoots, and harvesting this traditional perennial vegetable.
Why is Good King Henry called Poor Man's Asparagus?
Good King Henry is called Poor Man's Asparagus because its young spring shoots can be harvested and cooked in a similar way to asparagus. The tender shoots are traditionally steamed or boiled and served as a vegetable. This makes it a popular choice for gardeners interested in growing unusual perennial food crops.
How long does Good King Henry take to grow from seed?
Good King Henry seeds may take approximately 14–30 days to germinate under suitable conditions, although germination can be slow or irregular. Established plants generally require time to develop before regular harvesting. For the best results, follow the recommended seed preparation instructions and maintain consistent soil moisture.
Can you eat the leaves and shoots of Good King Henry?
Yes, Good King Henry is a traditional edible vegetable. Its young leaves can be cooked similarly to spinach, while its tender spring shoots can be prepared like asparagus. The plant contains naturally occurring oxalates, so moderate consumption is advisable, particularly for people who have been advised to limit dietary oxalates.