How to Grow Brazilian Spinach in New Zealand
A perennial summer spinach substitute for frost-free parts of the north, usually grown from cuttings rather than seed. Plant it once and pick leaves through the warm months when other leafy greens struggle.
When to plant brazilian spinach in New Zealand
Timing is everything in New Zealand, where the warm north and the cooler south are weeks apart. Sow or plant in these months for your region:
| Region | When to sow or plant |
|---|---|
| Northland | September, October, November, December |
| Auckland | September, October, November, December |
Best brazilian spinach varieties for NZ
- Brazilian Spinach (Alternanthera sissoo) — Low spreading perennial green grown from cuttings, picked leaf by leaf. (Specialty nurseries, permaculture swaps)
How to grow brazilian spinach
- Space plants about 40cm apart.
- Sow seed around 0.5cm deep.
- Position: part shade.
- Ready to harvest in roughly 60 days.
- Seeds germinate in about 14 days.
Pests and problems
Watch for: Slugs, Snails. See our NZ pest and disease guide for organic control.
For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the Brazilian Spinach plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant brazilian spinach in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in September, October, November, December. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy brazilian spinach seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Specialty nurseries, permaculture swaps.