Purple Passion Orach Seeds

Purple Passion Orach (Mountain Spinach) (Atriplex hortensis) is a stunning heirloom leafy vegetable grown for its brilliant deep purple foliage, mild spinach-like flavor, and exceptional heat tolerance. Unlike traditional spinach, which quickly bolts in warm weather, Purple Passion thrives through the heat of summer, providing continuous harvests of tender, colorful leaves. Its striking appearance makes it equally valuable as an ornamental focal point in the garden and a nutritious addition to the kitchen.

Introduction

Purple Passion Orach has been admired for centuries as both an ornamental and edible plant. The tall, graceful plants produce vibrant burgundy-purple leaves that create a dramatic contrast with green vegetables and flowers. Easy to grow and remarkably productive, this heirloom is an excellent alternative to spinach during warm weather, offering fresh greens long after traditional spinach has faded.

Why Grow Purple Passion Orach?

• Beautiful deep purple foliage adds dramatic garden color.
• Excellent spinach substitute during hot weather.
• Mild, tender leaves with excellent flavor.
• Highly heat tolerant and slow to bolt.
• Fast growing and productive.
• Outstanding for edible landscapes.
• Easy to grow from seed.
• Perfect for salads and cooked greens.

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The young leaves have a mild, slightly earthy flavor similar to spinach with a tender texture that is excellent fresh in salads, sandwiches, and wraps. Larger leaves are delicious steamed, sautéed, added to soups, quiches, stir-fries, pasta dishes, and casseroles. The vivid purple foliage also adds beautiful color to salad mixes and gourmet presentations.

Growing Information

Purple Passion Orach grows best in full sun to partial shade in fertile, well-drained soil with regular moisture. Unlike spinach, it thrives in warm summer temperatures and continues producing tender foliage for months. Harvest young leaves frequently to encourage continuous new growth, or allow plants to mature into impressive ornamental specimens reaching several feet in height.

• Botanical Name: Atriplex hortensis
• Plant Type: Hardy annual leafy vegetable
• Days to Maturity: 40–50 days
• Plant Height: 4–6 feet
• Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Spacing: 12–18 inches

Seedman Notes

Purple Passion Orach is one of our favorite vegetables for gardeners who enjoy growing something a little different. The brilliant purple foliage creates a spectacular display while providing delicious harvests throughout the hottest part of summer when spinach has long since bolted. If you're looking for a vegetable that's both beautiful and productive, Purple Passion is an outstanding addition to the garden.

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