Discovered by Sir Joseph Banks in New Zealand during the 1770 voyage of Captain James Cook, and enjoyed by 18th century gardeners, New Zealand is not true spinach but a great way to have spinach flavor all summer due to its heat-loving nature. Also known as perpetual spinach because it is perennial in USDA zones 8 and warmer and produces abundantly. Noted for high vitamin content, especially vitamin C; it was served on Captain Cook’s ship to prevent scurvy. Small, young leaves can be eaten raw or cooked. Bothered by almost no insects, even snails and slugs! Drought tolerant once established, but grows best with moderate moisture.