Caucasian Spinach Seeds (Hablitzia tamnoides)

Add a distinctive climbing edible perennial to the garden with Caucasian spinach, Hablitzia tamnoides. Its vines can reach about 6–9 feet with support, and its tender spring shoots and leaves can be enjoyed fresh or cooked. This shade-tolerant plant brings both vertical greenery and a harvest of mild-tasting greens.

At a glance

• Botanical name: Hablitzia tamnoides
• Growth habit: Hardy perennial climbing vine
• Height: About 6–9 feet with support
• USDA hardiness zones: 3–6
• Light: Partial shade to full sun
• Available sizes: 10, 30, 50, or 200 seeds

Start seeds

Seeds benefit from cold stratification: mix with damp sand or peat and refrigerate for 4–6 weeks before sowing, or sow outdoors in fall for natural winter chilling. Sow shallowly, barely cover with fine soil, and keep consistently moist. Germination can be slow and irregular, so allow time for seedlings to emerge.

Choose a growing site

Plant in partial shade or dappled light in rich, moisture-retentive soil that drains well. Provide a trellis, fence, or other support for the climbing stems. Plants establish gradually in the first year and may grow more vigorously from the second year onward.

Harvest and enjoy

Pick tender spring shoots and prepare them like asparagus, or use young leaves fresh in salads. Mature leaves can be cooked like spinach in soups, stir-fries, and sautés. Regular light harvesting encourages new leafy growth.