Copper Plume Atriplex is an open-pollinated ornamental vegetable from the Amaranthaceae family that transforms gardens with its shimmering, productive foliage. This compact cultivar reaches 60 to 72 inches tall and matures in 75 to 110 days, offering both visual drama and edible harvest. Direct seeded after the last frost or started indoors 4 to 6 weeks prior, it thrives in moderate moisture and slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0 to 7.5). The distinctive copper-toned plumes serve as striking fillers in fresh arrangements or dried bouquets, while the young stems and leaves deliver fresh harvest throughout the growing season.
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Moderate
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72in H x ?in W
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High
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Copper Plume Atriplex shimmers with productive foliage that works equally well as a cut flower filler and edible green. Its compact growth habit and frost tolerance extend the season on both ends, allowing gardeners to plant earlier and harvest later than many tender greens. The dual purpose of ornament and sustenance makes it a rare addition to vegetable beds that pulls double duty.
The productive stems are harvested fresh for both culinary use and floral arranging, where their coppery plumes add texture and shimmer to bouquets. Mature seed pods can be hung to dry for long-lasting arrangements, extending the season's beauty indoors. The young leaves and tender stems work in salads and light cooking.
No timeline data available yet for this variety.
Sow seeds indoors 4 to 6 weeks before your last frost date, keeping soil warm between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit for reliable germination.
Harden off seedlings gradually before moving them outdoors after the last frost. Space transplants 10 inches apart in full sun with well-draining soil.
Direct seed after the last frost in your area, sowing at 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit for best results.
Harvest fresh stems anytime during the growing season for immediate use in cooking or arrangements. For dried arrangements, wait until seed pods have fully matured and begun to dry on the plant, then cut stems and hang them upside down in a warm, airy space until completely dry. This two-stage approach gives you both fresh harvests throughout the season and dried material for long-lasting bouquets.
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