It gets its name from its continuous cropping, and in its first year it does not bolt. At the end of the second year it is best to replace the plants.
Perpetual Spinach, also known as Spinach Beet or Perpetual Leaf Beet, is one of the easiest leafy greens to grow in the home vegetable garden. Although it’s a member of the chard family, its flavour is much closer to English spinach, making it an excellent substitute, especially in warmer climates where true spinach can struggle.
One of its biggest advantages is its long harvest period. As its name suggests, Perpetual Spinach produces a continuous supply of leaves over many months and is much slower to bolt than true spinach. During its first year it rarely runs to seed, but by the end of the second year plants become less productive and are best replaced.
Young leaves are delicious eaten fresh in salads, while larger leaves are perfect for stir fries, soups, quiches and steaming.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Common Names | Perpetual Spinach, Spinach Beet, Perpetual Leaf Beet |
| Botanical Name | Beta vulgaris var. cicla |
| Plant Type | Leafy vegetable |
| Position | Full sun to part shade |
| Soil | Rich, well-drained soil |
| Spacing | 20 cm (8 inches) |
| Harvest | Pick outer leaves regularly |
| Climate | Cool to warm climates |
Taste Compared to Spinach and Chard
Although Perpetual Spinach belongs to the chard family, its flavour is much closer to spinach than silver beet. The leaves are mild, tender and less earthy than Swiss chard, making them a versatile addition to the kitchen.
Young leaves are excellent in salads, while mature leaves hold their texture well when cooked.
When to plant Perpetual Spinach
Perpetual Spinach is best grown from seed. Sow from late winter through to early summer and again from late summer until autumn for an extended harvest.
How to Plant Perpetual Spinach
Sow seed directly where the plants are to grow and thin seedlings as they develop.
- Space plants around 20 cm (8 inches) apart.
- Leave 30 cm (12 inches) between rows.
- Grow in rich, well-drained soil with plenty of organic matter.
- Keep the soil evenly moist during establishment.
- Feed regularly with a nitrogen-rich fertiliser to encourage leafy growth.
You can also plant nursery seedlings in spring. Choose smaller plants where possible, avoid disturbing the roots, and water in well with a liquid seaweed fertiliser.
Summary growing conditions.
- Sow seed direct
- Deep humus rich soil
- Full sun to a little light shade
- Water regularly
- Fertilise with a nitrogen rich fertiliser.
Growing in Containers
This is an excellent vegetable for containers and raised beds. Use a quality vegetable potting mix in a pot at least 30 cm (12 inches) deep, keep the soil consistently moist, and feed regularly during the growing season.
Harvesting
Harvest the older outer leaves as needed, leaving the younger centre leaves to continue growing. Regular picking encourages new leaves and provides a steady harvest over many months.
Companion Plants
Perpetual Spinach grows well alongside beans, tomatoes and other leafy greens.
Replacing Older Plants
Once plants begin producing flower stalks and setting seed, usually in their second year, it’s time to remove them. Add the old plants to the compost, improve the soil with compost or well-rotted manure, and sow a fresh crop.