Malabar Spinach (Basella rubra): Growing Guide for Edible Climbing Vine

Malabar Spinach (Basella rubra)

Malabar Spinach is a heat-loving, vining annual (perennial in tropics) with dark green leaves, burgundy stems, and edible leaves with a pepper-lemon flavor. Climbs 8–10 ft on trellis. Produces small white flowers then berries. Not true spinach but delicious in salads, soups, stir-fries.

Quick Facts

• Common Names: Malabar Spinach, Climbing Spinach, Ceylon Spinach
• Botanical Name: Basella rubra (alba = green stem)
• Vine Length: 8–10 ft (2.4–3 m)
• Bloom Time: Summer to Fall
• Life Cycle: Annual (perennial in frost-free)

Growing from Seed

• Indoor start: 4–6 weeks before frost. Heat mat helps.
• Soak seeds overnight.
• Direct sow: After frost, 1/4 in deep.
• Germination: 10–15 days.
• Spacing: 10–12 in.

Care Requirements

Light

Full sun. Partial shade in extreme heat.

Soil

Rich, loose, moisture-retentive, well-draining. Amend with compost.

Watering

Consistent moisture. Mulch.

Fertilizer

Every 3–4 weeks.

Support

Trellis, fence, or veggie cage required.

Harvest

Pick young leaves anytime vine is growing well.