General
Good King Henry is a traditional perennial leafy vegetable once commonly grown in Europe. It produces edible leaves, shoots, and flower buds, often compared to spinach or asparagus.
Light
Full sun to partial shade.
Soil type
Well-drained loam or clay soil rich in organic matter.
Water requirement
Medium; prefers evenly moist soil but tolerates short dry periods.
Nutrient requirement
Medium; thrives in moderately fertile soil.
Precultivation
Seeds benefit from cold stratification. Sow early indoors or outdoors in cool conditions. Germination can be slow and uneven.
Planting
Plant in early spring in a permanent location. Space plants about 40–60 cm apart. Once established, it requires little care.
Pruning
Remove flowering stems if leaf production is desired. Cut back after flowering to promote fresh growth.
Maintenance
Mulch annually with compost. Water during prolonged dry spells. Avoid excessive fertilization.
Harvest
Harvest young leaves and shoots in spring and early summer. The leaves should be cooked to remove bitterness and are used like spinach. Flower buds and young seed clusters can be cooked like broccoli. Mature seeds can be used like quinoa, but should be soaked and rinsed in water before cooking.
Common issues
Generally pest-free. Slugs may damage young plants.
Companion plants
Perennial herbs, kale, sorrel, lovage.
