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Annual Biennial

Atriplex hortensis var. rubra

red mountain spinach

An erect annual to 1m or more, with slightly succulent, ovate, deep red-purple leaves to 15cm in length, and tall dense racemes of tiny flowers of similar colouring

Other common names
red orach
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Size
Ultimate height
1–1.5 metres
Time to ultimate height
1–2 years
Ultimate spread
0.1–0.5 metres
Growing conditions
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Purple Red
Summer Purple Red Purple Red
Autumn
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H2
Botanical details
Family
Amaranthaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Columnar upright
Genus

Atriplex can be annuals, perennials, shrubs or sub-shrubs, with simple, often silvery, leaves and usually inconspicuous flowers in summer

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in full sun, water freely in dry weather

Propagation

Propagate by seed in succession from spring to early summer

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Flower borders and beds
Pruning

Cut back after flowering

Pests

Generally pest-free

Diseases

Generally disease-free

Get involved

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