Description
50 Seeds per pack
(a.k.a. Basella, Ceylon Spinach, Indian Spinach, Land Kelp, Malabar Nightshade, Malabar Climbing Spinach, Poi Sag, Vine Spinach) (Basella alba) 60-70 days This lovely variety is highly decorative, easy to grow, and very nutritious. Malabar spinach is a native of Africa and Southeast Asia, and is perfect for hot climates, as it loves hot, humid weather, producing fast and luxurious growth. An excellent choice for those who want spinach in the Summer! Malabar Spinach does not bolt (go to seed prematurely), even in extreme heat. Vigorous climbing plants grow to 6-10′, producing big glossy bright-green leaves. Young leaves can be cooked and added to recipes. Great in soups, stews, stir-fry, steamed, boiled or in tofu dishes. In Japan, it is cooked in tempura or braised and topped with a sesame dressing. Do be careful not to overcook as it can become slimy. Fresh leaves make a great salad. Leaves are similar in texture and flavor to kelp or swiss chard, and some say the flavor reminds them of beets. Often used as a thickening agent in the Orient, or in place of okra in the South. Leaves can also be used to make a tea. Vines do need a trellis or an arbor to climb, makes a lovely ornamental addition to any garden! Frost sensitive.
Planting Instructions for Malabar Spinach Seeds
Heirloom / Open Pollinated Malabar Spinach is heat loving, and does not tolerate frost, doing best in hot, long season climates. Frost free season of 150 + days is best for Malabar Spinach Seed production. Can extend season by greenhouse starting, if desired. Direct sow Heirloom / Open Pollinated Malabar Spinach Seeds in full sun, covering with ½” of soil. Germination usually occurs in 10-12 days when the temperature is 80° +. Thin Malabar Spinach plants to 12-18″.
FAQ:
How long does it take Malabar Spinach to mature?
Malabar Spinach matures in 60-70 days.
What are the characteristics of Malabar Spinach?
Malabar Spinach is a vigorous climbing plant that grows 6-10 feet tall, featuring glossy, bright-green leaves. It thrives in hot, humid climates, does not bolt in extreme heat, and adds a decorative touch to gardens.
How should Malabar Spinach seeds be planted?
Direct sow seeds in full sun, covering them with ½ inch of soil. Germination typically occurs in 10-12 days when temperatures are above 80°F. Thin plants to 12-18 inches apart for proper growth.
What are the culinary uses of Malabar Spinach?
The leaves are versatile and can be used in soups, stews, stir-fries, salads, or as a lettuce substitute. They are also used in tempura, braised with sesame dressing, or as a thickening agent. Avoid overcooking, as they can become slimy.
What are the growing conditions for Malabar Spinach?
Malabar Spinach thrives in hot, long-season climates and requires a trellis or arbor for support. It is frost-sensitive and performs best in a frost-free season of 150+ days.
Gregory Manglitz Sr (verified owner) –
Fantastic spinach, grows in Florida hot summers and have continued to produce in the fall
Becky (verified owner) –
This spinach is amazing! It’s like the bean pot in the children’s fairy tale that never went empty. We started off with three plants and each plant had numerous runners stretching well over 20 feet each. This and the okra are my best growers this hot and dry south Texas summer!
zachary b. (verified owner) –
Great product
Laura D. (verified owner) –
Have not tried this spinach yet.
Deborah H. (verified owner) –
Another awesome seed and it is growing well.