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Spinach Seeds, Red Malabar
Description
(Basella rubra). Easily the most beautiful vining edible green you can grow! Red Malabar spinach is a splendid edible ornamental, and it is extremely heat tolerant, providing gobs of nutritious greens while others have succumbed to the heat. This heat-loving Asian vine has lovely red stems and delicious, succulent leaves that are great in salads, and stir-fries and perfect for smoothies. The vines produce tons of deep purple berries. The flavor is fairly bland, however the color is an extraordinary purple. Super high in anthocyanin, excellent as a natural dye for fabrics and foods.Â
- 70 days to maturity
- 6-12 hours of sun
- Sprouts in 14-21 days
- Ideal Temperature: 75-95 F
- Seed Depth: 1/2"
- Plant Spacing: 16"
- Frost Hardy: No
Growing Tips, Tricks and FAQs
Growing Tips
Red Malabar spinach grows best in rich soil and warm temperatures and can reach lengths of 10-20 feet if provided with adequate support such as a trellis or fence​. Ample moisture delays flowering and keeps the leaves mild-tasting.
When to Grow
Red Malabar spinach is best planted in late spring or early summer, after the last frost. In warmer regions (USDA Zones 7 and above), it can be direct-seeded outdoors 2-3 weeks after the last frost date. In cooler areas, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before the last frost and transplant once temperatures stabilize​.
How to Sow and Plant
Malabar spinach seeds should be planted about 1/2 inch deep in well-drained, warm, fertile soil. Soak seeds overnight before planting. Space seeds 1-2 inches apart, thinning to about 16 inches apart once seedlings are established. Scarifying the seeds (scratching the surface lightly) can help improve germination.
How to Grow
This plant prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade, which may result in larger, more succulent leaves. It thrives in moist, fertile soil rich in organic matter with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. Regular watering is essential to keep the soil evenly moist, as dry conditions can lead to bitterness and early flowering. Mulching helps retain soil moisture and reduce weed growth.
How to Save
- You can easily clonally propagate this plant by taking cuttings in fall and rooting them in water. Keep the plant as a houseplant over winter and root more cuttings in spring to transplant out. Seed saving is also possible.
- For seed saving, allow purple fruits to mature and become soft and wrinkly. Save seeds and rinse with water before sun drying. Store seeds in an airtight container for up to 3 years in a cool, dark, dry location.
FAQ
How should Malabar spinach be harvested?
Harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth. You can start picking leaves once the plant has developed 8-10 leaves. Always leave some foliage on the vine to ensure continued growth. Use scissors or garden shears to cut the leaves, which will help maintain plant health.
Can Malabar spinach tolerate frost?
No, it is very sensitive to frost and should be grown as an annual in areas with cold winters​.
Can Malabar spinach be grown indoors?
Yes, it can be grown indoors in large containers. Make sure that the plant receives plenty of sunlight (or supplemental light) and regular watering. A support structure will be needed for the vines to climb.
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