Orach, Ruby Red (Atriplex Hortensis) - 25 Seeds

•Non-GMO
•American grown seeds

Description:
A cool season plant, orach is a warm season alternative to spinach that is less likely to bolt. Also known as Garden Orache, Red Orach, Purple Mountain Spinach, French Spinach and Sea Purslane. It is also sometimes referred to as Salt Bush due to its tolerance for alkaline and saline soils. A native of Europe and Siberia, orach is possibly one of the more ancient cultivated plants. It is grown in Europe and the northern plains of the United States as a substitute for spinach either fresh or cooked. The flavor is reminiscent of spinach and is often combined with sorrel leaves. The seeds are also edible and a source of vitamin A. They are ground into a meal and mixed with flour for making breads. Seeds are also used to make a blue dye.

Medicinal Properties:
The leaves are diuretic, emetic and purgative. They are also said to be a stimulant to the metabolism and an infusion is used as a spring tonic and a remedy for tiredness and nervous exhaustion. They have been suggested as a folk remedy for treating plethora and lung ailments.

Growing Instructions:
Red Orach is an annual herb suitable for full sun. Sow the Orach seeds in the spring as early as the soil can be worked. Thinly cover the herb seeds and keep them moist. Sow the seeds 2 inches apart and in rows 12 to 18 inches apart. Thin the young plants when they are 6 inches in height, leaving 12 to 18 inches for spacing. The thinned plants can be eaten. Harvest the young leaves like spinach.