Red orache or mountain spinach, Atriplex hortensis var. rubra, is an erect colourful annual with purple leaves. It makes a lovely border plant, and its leaves make a tasty, succulent addition to the salad bowl. Atriplex hortensis var. rubra has lance-shaped leaves, about 18cm (7in) long. Purple flowering spikes appear in summer, complementing its foliage.
For best results grow Atriplex hortensis var. rubra in well-drained soil in full sun, sowing successionally if you want to harvest leaves throughout the growing season. Water freely in summer.
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Atriplex and wildlife
Atriplex has no particular known value to wildlife in the UK.
