Orach- Fire Red

Description

1. Orach, Fire Red (Atriplex hortensis) is a vibrant, leafy plant known for its fiery red to purple stems and leaves. Often referred to as mountain spinach, Orach adds color and a mildly tangy flavor to a variety of dishes.
2.  
3. Features:
4. Appearance: Deep red to purple foliage, often growing to a height of 3-5 feet. The plant has a bushy, upright structure, making it a striking ornamental addition to gardens.
5. Flavor: The young leaves have a mild, slightly tangy, spinach-like flavor that intensifies as the plant matures.
6. Texture: The leaves are soft and tender when young, with a slightly tougher texture as they mature.
7.  
8. Uses:
9. Salads: The young, tender leaves can be eaten raw in salads, adding a splash of color and a slight tang.
10. Cooking: Use in place of spinach for sautéing, stir-fries, or soups. The taste becomes more pronounced when cooked.
11. Microgreens: Harvest early as microgreens for a zesty addition to dishes.
12. Pesto & Garnish: Can be blended into pesto or chopped finely as a garnish for soups and baked goods.
13.  
14. Planting Instructions:
15. Planting Depth: Direct sow seeds 1/4 to 1/2 inch deep into soil.
16. Spacing: Space plants 8-12 inches apart to allow them to spread and grow.
17. Season: Start seeds in early spring after the last frost or in late fall for winter harvesting in milder climates.
18. Sunlight & Watering: Full sun is ideal for vibrant color development. Keep the soil evenly moist during the growing season.