Hablitzia tamnoides
M.Bieb.
Caucasian spinach
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Description
Hablitzia tamnoides is a PERENNIAL CLIMBER growing to 3 m (9ft) by 0.5 m (1ft 8in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 6. The flowers are pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.
Edible Uses
Edible greens and shoots raw or cooked. Mild edible leaves similar to those of the related spinach. Add leaves to a salad. Leaves also used in soups, pies, pizza, indian and oriental food. Young shoots can be eaten.
Distribution
Origin: The Caucasus, the border of Europe and Asia
Where It Grows
TEMPERATE ASIA: Russian Federation-Ciscaucasia (Ciscaucasia), Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Russian Federation (Dagestan)
Cultivation
A woodland climber. Plant in a spot that gets sun for half the day ideally. Plants can tolerate sun for up to two thirds of the day. Will die back in the winter. Plants need something to climb on for example a bamboo trellis.
Propagation
Seed. Germinate at very low temperatures in early spring. Seeds need to be stratified. Cild moist treatment improves germination. Division in autumn
Other Uses
Originally introduced to gardens in Finland, Sweden and Norway as an attractive climbing ornamental.
