Plant library
Perennial food
Good King Henry
Blitum bonus-henricus
Zones 3–9
A medieval kitchen-garden spinach that grows in the same spot for years — tender shoots in spring, leaves all summer, flower buds like broccoli.
Sun
Full sun to part shade
Water
moderate
Spacing
12-18 in apart
Soil
Rich, pH 6.0-7.0
Difficulty
moderate
Zones
3–9
When to plant
Mar
Apr
Oct
Timing shifts with your zone — the Genie can pin down exact dates for you.
How to care for it
Sow seed in spring (slow to germinate — be patient) or divide roots; thin to 12-18 in. Top-dress with compost yearly. Cut flower buds for tender shoots.
Good companions
Asparagus and rhubarb
Harvest
Harvest young shoots in spring, leaves through summer, and unopened buds like loose broccoli.
Want a plan for growing Good King Henry?
Your Genie can give exact timing and care for your zone.
