Swiss Chard

Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris

Amaranthaceae · vegetables · Mediterranean

EdibleLow Maintenance

About Swiss Chard

A dual-purpose vegetable with nutritious dark green leaves and colorful stems in red, yellow, orange, and white. Beautiful enough for ornamental gardens. Heat tolerant — keeps producing when lettuce bolts.

Growing Conditions

☀️

Sun

Full Sun to Part Shade

💧💧

Water

Medium

🌱

Soil

Rich, Well-drained

📈

Growth Rate

Fast

🌸

Bloom Season

Spring-Fall

🌈

Bloom Color

Green (insignificant)

Size & Dimensions

Height

Spread

Hardiness Zone Range

Suitable for USDA Zones 2 through 11

Plant Details

Family	Amaranthaceae
Category	Vegetables
Native Region	Mediterranean
Scientific Name	Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris

Care Tips

✓Direct sow or transplant.
✓Harvest outer leaves for continuous production.
✓Tolerates light frost and summer heat.
✓'Bright Lights' mix provides rainbow-colored stems.

Fun Facts

★Despite the name, Swiss chard has no connection to Switzerland — a Swiss botanist simply gave it its scientific name.
★Related to beets and spinach.
★Each 'seed' is actually a cluster that produces multiple plants.

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Data verified: 2026-04

USDA Plants Database Missouri Botanical Garden

Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones can Swiss Chard grow in?

Swiss Chard (Beta vulgaris subsp. vulgaris) thrives in USDA hardiness zones 2 through 11. This means it can tolerate winter temperatures typical of these zones. Check your local zone to ensure it is suitable for your area.

How much sun and water does Swiss Chard need?

Swiss Chard requires full sun to part shade and has medium water needs. It grows best in rich, well-drained soil. Regular watering is recommended, especially during dry periods.

How tall and wide does Swiss Chard grow?

Swiss Chard typically reaches 2' tall with a spread of 1'. It has a fast growth rate and requires low maintenance. Plan your garden spacing accordingly to give it room to reach its full size.

Is Swiss Chard deer resistant?

Swiss Chard is not typically considered deer resistant. If deer are common in your area, consider protecting young plants with fencing or using deer repellent sprays during the growing season.

When does Swiss Chard bloom and is it edible?

Swiss Chard blooms in spring-fall, producing green (insignificant) flowers. Parts of this plant are edible and can be used in cooking or eaten fresh. It belongs to the Amaranthaceae family and is native to Mediterranean.

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