Also known as Allgood · English Mercury · Fat-Hen
Good King Henry (Blitum bonus-henricus) is a hardy perennial vegetable, a spinach relative, grown for its edible leaves, shoots, and flower buds. It thrives in partial sh
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
50% intensity
Prefers a location with ample sunlight but tolerates some shade, particularly in hotter climates.
Regular
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, especially in dry weather. Avoid waterlogging.
Well-drained, fertile soil
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, surviving freezing winters and warm summers. Ideal growth in cooler temperate climates.
Low
25% intensity
Enrich soil with compost annually. Avoid excessive nitrogen which can reduce flavor.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | Yes |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, keeping the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, especially during dry periods.
Good King Henry prefers damp conditions and will benefit from thorough watering when the top 2-3 cm of soil feels dry. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely, as this can stress the plant.
Prune back to the ground in late autumn or early spring to encourage fresh, tender growth. Remove any yellowing or damaged leaves throughout the growing season.
Deadheading can prevent excessive self-seeding if desired, though it is not strictly necessary for plant health.
Good King Henry is easily propagated by seed, which can be sown directly outdoors in spring or autumn. It also readily divides at the root in spring.
Established plants often self-seed, making new plants appear in the garden naturally over time.
As a perennial vegetable, Good King Henry is typically grown in situ and does not require frequent repotting.
If container-grown, repot every 2-3 years in spring into a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix. Ensure adequate drainage to prevent root rot.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Good King Henry (Blitum bonus-henricus)
Where Good King Henry (Blitum bonus-henricus) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Blitum |
| Species | Blitum bonus-henricus |
Similar in genus Blitum
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
