The Swiss chard belongs to the same plant genus as the beetroot.
It is not currently widespread in the allotment garden, although on the other hand its vitamin- and mineral content, on the other hand, the low crop requirements would justify a larger scope of cultivation. Due to its high carotene and considerable calcium content, Swiss chard is a very valuable leafy vegetable, especially for children, and is generally more digestible than spinach. It can be used in a similar way to spinach or prepared as a stem vegetable like asparagus, by only the thick, fleshy leaf veins are used. With appropriate cultivation design, harvestable chard is available from spring to late autumn.