Big, thick, glossy, dark-green leaves have a slightly peppery, slightly citrusy flavor, making them a great substitute for true spinach when summer heat hits. Malabar spinach works well in any recipe that calls for true spinach—including in green salads or stir-fries—but because of its slightly gelatinous texture, it is most frequently used to thicken soups and stews. Slow-bolting plants grow fast, tolerate heat well, and produce new leaves throughout the season. ‘Green Malabar’ also makes a mark as an ornamental, producing lush foliage on vines that can grow up to 10' long. 50-60 days.
- Conventional
- Not a true spinach, but it is similar in flavor and usage
- Soft, rounded leaves
- Green leaf veins and stems
- Fast growing vines
- Dark green glossy heart-shaped leaves