Strawberry spinach (Blitum capitatum)
Care, watering, light and tips for Strawberry spinach on Floravia.
Quick facts
- Family: Amaranthaceae
- Difficulty: Easy to care for
- Watering: every 3 days
- Light: Partial shade
- Temperature: 10–30 °C
About Strawberry spinach
Blitum capitatum, commonly known as strawberry spinach or jordbærmelde, is an annual plant from the Amaranthaceae family, valued for both its edible leaves and its small, bright red, strawberry-like fruits. It produces clusters of red berries along the stems in the leaf axils, creating a decorative effect. It is ideal for urban gardens, path edges, or as an ornamental edible plant in pots and garden beds.
Native range
Europe, Asia and North America
Care tips
It requires full sun for optimal fruiting and well-drained soil rich in organic matter. Watering should be regular, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged, especially during flowering and fruiting. Avoid excessive nitrogen, as it can promote leaf growth at the expense of fruit production. A common mistake is to confuse its fruits with sweet strawberries; they are rather bland, used primarily for garnish or in salads.
How to save a dying Strawberry spinach
- Warning signs
- Yellowing or wilting leaves, soft stems, small or no fruits.
- First aid
- Check drainage and soil moisture. Move to partial shade if too much sun.
- What kills it
- Overwatering causing root rot or lack of water in hot climates.
- Can it be saved?
- Yes, if roots aren't completely rotted and you act quickly.