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Growing Red Malabar Spinach in the Vegetable Garden

Red Malabar spinach thrives in heat and warm soils. In cooler climates, start seeds indoors 5-8 weeks before your last expected frost. Soak seeds overnight or lightly scarify the hard seed coat, then sow 0.25 inch deep in warm seed-starting mix kept near 70-85 F. Germination can be slow, often taking 10-21 days. Provide strong light, so seedlings stay compact and develop thick stems.

Transplant outdoors after all danger of frost has passed, and nighttime temperatures remain above 60 F. Space plants 12 inches apart in rows 24-36 inches apart. Provide a sturdy trellis, fence, or arbor for vines that can reach 72-120 inches in a season. Choose rich, moist, well-drained soil and mix in compost or a balanced organic fertilizer before planting. Mulch to conserve moisture and keep roots cool, especially in very hot, sunny sites.

Harvesting of Red Malabar Spinach

Begin harvesting once vines are growing strongly and leaves reach usable size. Snip individual leaves or cut 6-8 inch stem tips with several leaves attached. Regular harvesting encourages branching and steady production through the warm season.

Pick in the cool of the morning for best texture. Young leaves and tender tips can be used raw in salads, while larger leaves shine in stir-fries, curries, and soups where their natural viscosity lightly thickens the dish. Pinch or trim flower spikes if you want to extend leafy harvest; plants will eventually shift to flowering as days shorten.

About Red Malabar Spinach Garden Seeds

Red Malabar spinach is a tropical vining leafy green, also known as Red Stem Malabar, Vietnamese spinach, red vine spinach, Phooi leaf, Indian spinach, Alugbati, and Ceylon spinach. The vibrant red-purple stems and glossy leaves make it a standout edible ornamental on arches, trellises, and fences while providing generous summer greens.

Unlike true spinach, which prefers cool weather, Malabar spinach loves heat and humidity and continues producing when many leafy crops have bolted. The flavor is mild and fairly bland, making it easy to pair with garlic, chilies, coconut milk, or aromatic herbs in Asian and Indian-inspired dishes. Its tender tips and leaves freeze well and can be preserved for off-season cooking.

Tips From Our Gardeners

"Pre-soak seeds and be patient with germination—once Red Malabar takes off, it climbs fast. Give it a tall, sturdy trellis, steady moisture, and frequent harvests of 6-8 inch tips for a constant supply of glossy leaves all summer."

- Jerry Sawyer, True Leaf Market Writer

Red Malabar Spinach Seeds Per Package:

• 3 g Packet - Approximately 225 Seeds
• 0.25 oz - Bulk - Approximately 525 Seeds
• 1 oz - Bulk - Approximately 2,100 Seeds
• 4 oz - Bulk - Approximately 8,400 Seeds
• 1 lb - Wholesale - Approximately 33,600 Seeds

Non-GMO Red Malabar Spinach seeds are available for Fast Free Shipping on qualifying orders.