How to Grow New Zealand Spinach (Warrigal) in New Zealand
Updated June 2026
Known here as New Zealand spinach or kokihi, this sprawling coastal native is very drought-tough and crops through the warm months. Blanch the leaves in boiling water for a couple of minutes before eating to remove oxalates, and do not eat them raw.
When to plant new zealand spinach (warrigal) 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 | January, September, October, November, December |
| Auckland | January, September, October, November, December |
| Waikato & BoP | January, September, October, November, December |
| Wellington | January, October, November, December |
| Nelson & Marlborough | January, October, November, December |
| Canterbury | November, December |
| Otago & Southland | November, December |
| Central Otago | December |
Best new zealand spinach (warrigal) varieties for NZ
- Warrigal Greens (New Zealand Spinach), Sprawling native coastal succulent, also called kokihi, used like spinach. (Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds)
How to grow new zealand spinach (warrigal)
- Space plants about 60cm apart.
- Sow seed around 1cm deep.
- Position: full sun.
- 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.
🌱 Plant New Zealand Spinach (Warrigal) in your garden →For a calendar tuned to your exact region, see the New Zealand planting guides or the New Zealand Spinach (Warrigal) plant page.
FAQ
When is the best time to plant new zealand spinach (warrigal) in New Zealand?
In the warm north (Auckland, Northland) sow in January, September, October, November, December. Cooler regions plant a little later. Check the table above for your region.
Where can I buy new zealand spinach (warrigal) seeds or plants in NZ?
Try Kings Seeds, Egmont Seeds.