Malabar Spinach
Basella alba
Family: BasellaceaeNative: Tropical Southern Asia (likely India or Southeast Asia)Identified: Apr 6, 2026
A fast-growing, edible perennial vine with thick, succulent, heart-shaped leaves and red or green stems. It produces small, white or pink flowers in spikes and dark purple-to-black berries.
Learn more about Malabar Spinach in the encyclopedia →Care instructions
Thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade. Requires moist, well-draining soil and a trellis for climbing. Since it is a tropical plant, it needs warm temperatures and consistent watering to prevent bolting (flowering too early).