Fat Hen Seeds
Europe's oldest leaf vegetable — older than farming itself
Fat hen has been eaten in Ireland for over 10,000 years — seeds have been found in Mesolithic archaeological sites predating agriculture. It's closely related to quinoa and was one of Europe's most important food plants until it was displaced by spinach in the 16th century.
The young leaves are higher in protein, iron, and vitamin C than spinach. They can be used raw in salads or cooked like spinach. The seeds are edible too — a European pseudo-cereal.
Fat hen is technically a 'weed' — which means it grows almost anywhere, in any soil, with zero care. Once established, it self-seeds freely.
Species Included
Chenopodium album (Fat Hen / Lamb's Quarters)
Sowing Instructions
Sow direct March–June. Scatter on prepared soil and press in — needs light. Thin to 20cm apart. Harvest young leaves from 6 weeks. Self-seeds prolifically — you'll never need to sow again. Related to quinoa.
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