Tetragonia implexicoma
Bower Spinach (Tetragonia implexicoma) holds cultural importance in Aotearoa New Zealand through its roles in traditional knowledge and native ecosystems.
A sprawling coastal vine with fleshy, spinach-like leaves and small, edible, red to black fruits. Excellent salt and wind tolerance make it a reliable groundcover for coastal gardens among our coastal plants.
| Scientific Name | Tetragonia implexicoma |
|---|---|
| Height | Up to 3 m (trailing) |
| Water Needs | Low to moderate; drought tolerant |
| Light | Full sun to partial shade |
| Spread | 1-2 m |
| Frost Tolerance | Low |
| Salt Tolerance | High; excellent for coastal conditions |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Lifespan | Perennial |
Bower Spinach naturally thrives in New Zealand's coastal environments, demonstrating excellent tolerance to salt spray and strong coastal winds. It prefers temperate to subtropical climates with mild winters and is particularly well-adapted to areas with maritime influence.
Prefers full sun but tolerates partial shade. Best growth and fruiting occurs in sunny positions.
Highly adaptable to various soil types including sandy, poor, and salt-affected soils. Excellent drainage essential.
Drought tolerant once established. Requires minimal watering in most coastal situations.
Bower Spinach (Tetragonia implexicoma) is a low-maintenance, sprawling coastal vine that can provide edible leaves for much of the year. Its care focuses on mimicking its natural coastal habitat, with an emphasis on good drainage and protection from severe frost.
Bower Spinach (Tetragonia implexicoma) is a vigorous, sprawling plant that generally requires minimal pruning. Pruning is primarily done to manage its size and spread, encourage bushier growth, or remove any unhealthy parts.
Bower Spinach is a sprawling coastal vine with succulent leaves and edible fruits. This hardy perennial forms a dense, spreading mat, making it an excellent choice for coastal gardens, rockeries, or as a drought-tolerant groundcover in sunny, well-drained areas. Endemic to New Zealand, it is typically found on coastal cliffs, sand dunes, and rocky shores. Its unique succulent foliage and vibrant flowers add a touch of exotic beauty to any landscape, showcasing the diversity of New Zealand's coastal flora. Understanding its propagation methods is key to successfully growing this delightful species.
Seed propagation is the most reliable and straightforward method for establishing new Bower Spinach plants. This species produces abundant seed that germinates readily when conditions are right. Collect ripe berries in late summer to autumn when they turn red or dark purple-black. Extract seeds by removing the fleshy pulp and thoroughly washing them in clean water. Soak seeds overnight in warm water to improve germination rates and break dormancy. Sow seeds on a porous, well-draining seed-raising mix, covering to the depth of the seed width (approximately 2-3mm). Place containers in a warm, semi-shaded position with temperatures between 15-25°C. Keep the growing medium consistently damp but not waterlogged. Germination typically occurs within 14-28 days under optimal conditions. Transplant seedlings when they develop their second set of true leaves.
Vegetative propagation through cuttings is extremely successful with Bower Spinach and allows for rapid establishment of new plants with identical characteristics to the parent. Select healthy, non-flowering stems approximately 10-15cm long from vigorous growth tips. Remove lower leaves, leaving 3-4 pairs at the tip. Allow cuttings to callus for 24-48 hours in a shaded, well-ventilated location. Insert cuttings into a free-draining propagation mix containing equal parts sand and organic matter. Water gently and maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging. Place in bright, indirect light with protection from strong sun. Roots typically develop within 2-4 weeks in temperatures above 18°C. Harden off gradually before transplanting to final positions.
Established plants naturally produce rooted runners that can be carefully separated to create new plants. This method is particularly effective for expanding existing plantings. Identify naturally rooted sections along trailing stems, usually at leaf nodes. Carefully lift rooted portions using a fork or spade to minimize root disturbance. Ensure each division has both healthy roots and above-ground growth. Plant immediately in prepared soil at the same depth as the original plant. Water thoroughly and provide temporary shade for the first week. Monitor regularly and maintain soil moisture until plants are actively growing.
Explore other coastal native plants that share similar growing conditions and complement Bower Spinach in seaside gardens.
