Description This species of Malabar spinach (Basella rubra, also known as Basella alba var. rubra) produces vining, magenta-red stems that carry an abundance of glossy deep green to red-tinged green leaves, along with spikes of pink flowers that are followed by fleshy-coated black seeds. The vigorous, twining stems of this heat- and drought-tolerant vine grow quickly and can cover a good-sized trellis, arbor, or wire fence. Best of all, the fleshy, edible leaves provide a bountiful harvest all through summer to frost. They have a somewhat spinach-like flavor and can be eaten raw or cooked. Full sun to light shade. Annual. Malabar spinach may self-sow, possibly to the point of being problematic in very mild climates. To prevent that, you could keep the flower clusters pinched off; that will also encourage more leaf production. Collected in October 2025. At least 10 seeds. Shipping to U.S. addresses only. Please read the germination information as well before ordering.
