Red Plume Orach Seeds

Red Plume Orach (Mountain Spinach) (Atriplex hortensis) is a beautiful heirloom leafy vegetable prized for its vibrant crimson-red foliage, tender spinach-like leaves, and outstanding heat tolerance. Unlike traditional spinach, which quickly bolts during warm weather, Red Plume continues producing abundant harvests of flavorful greens throughout the summer. Its colorful foliage and graceful upright growth make it equally valuable as an ornamental accent and a productive garden vegetable.

Introduction

Red Plume Orach brings striking color and dependable production to the vegetable garden. The vigorous plants develop rich red stems and broad crimson leaves that create a dramatic contrast with traditional green vegetables. As the plants mature, their upright growth habit and colorful foliage make them one of the most attractive edible plants in the garden, while the tender leaves provide fresh harvests over an extended growing season.

Why Grow Red Plume Orach?

• Brilliant crimson-red foliage adds outstanding garden color.
• Excellent spinach substitute during hot weather.
• Tender leaves with a mild, pleasant flavor.
• Highly heat tolerant and slow to bolt.
• Fast growing and productive.
• Outstanding ornamental edible plant.
• Easy to grow from seed.
• Perfect for vegetable gardens and edible landscapes.

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Young Red Plume leaves have a mild, delicate flavor similar to spinach with a slightly earthy sweetness. They are delicious fresh in salads, wraps, and sandwiches, while larger leaves are excellent steamed, sautéed, added to soups, stir-fries, pasta dishes, quiches, and casseroles. The vivid red foliage also adds beautiful color to mixed salad greens and gourmet presentations.

Growing Information

Red Plume grows best in fertile, well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade. Unlike traditional spinach, it thrives during the heat of summer and continues producing fresh foliage for months. Harvest young leaves regularly to encourage continuous new growth, or allow plants to mature into tall ornamental specimens that become a striking feature in the garden.

• 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

Red Plume is one of our favorite vegetables for adding both beauty and productivity to the summer garden. Its vivid crimson foliage creates an impressive display while providing tender greens long after traditional spinach has disappeared. Whether you're growing it for colorful salads or simply to brighten the vegetable garden, Red Plume is a rewarding heirloom that's sure to attract attention.

Quick Facts