New Zealand spinach
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Definition
Noun: * A sprawling, edible plant: "New Zealand spinach" refers to a coarse, low-growing plant native to Australasia. It is cultivated as a leafy vegetable, valued for its edible young shoots and thick, succulent leaves. It is not a true spinach but is used similarly in cooking.
Examples of Usage
- Noun:
- I planted some New Zealand spinach in my garden this spring.
- The salad was made with fresh New Zealand spinach and a light vinaigrette.
- Unlike common spinach, New Zealand spinach is more heat-tolerant.
Advanced Usage
- As a culinary term: The term is used to distinguish this plant from true spinach () in recipes and gardening contexts, often highlighting its similar use but different growing habits.
- For a summer crop, consider substituting regular spinach with New Zealand spinach.
Variants and Related Words
- Botanical name: (also formerly ).
- Common names: Warrigal greens, Botany Bay spinach, tetragon. These are regional variants for the same plant.
- Spinach (): The true spinach plant, a related but distinct species from the amaranth family.
Synonyms
- Warrigal greens: A common synonym, especially in Australian English.
- Botany Bay spinach: Another regional name.
- Leafy green / edible green: General terms that include this plant.
Related Phrases
- Summer spinach: A descriptive phrase sometimes used because it thrives in warmer weather when true spinach bolts.
- New Zealand spinach is often called "summer spinach" by gardeners.
Noun
- coarse sprawling Australasian plant with red or yellow flowers; cultivated for its edible young shoots and succulent leaves