Tropical spinach varieties are one of my most recommended crops to grow in Florida, as they are largely perennial species that require minimal effort or input from the gardener. Growing tropical spinach in Florida is a no brainer — if you’re looking for ongoing harvest without continually cleaning out and replanting garden beds, you’ll love the tropical spinach.
One of the easiest edibles to grow, this low-maintenance, perennial leafy green vegetable is highly recommended for beginner gardeners.
Florida friendly tropical spinach types
- Okinawa spinach. There are two types of okinawa spinach:
- Gynura crepioides has green leaves
- Gynura bicolor has a purple underbelly
- Malabar spinach
- Basella spp. This one grows as an attractive vine. Also known as Ceylon spinach.
- Basella rubra is typically cultivated as landscape ornamental plants, while B. alba and B. cordifolia are the species preferred for dietary uses. Source.
- Longevity spinach (Gynura procumbens)
- Surinam spinach (Talinum triangulare)
- Distinguished by its pink edible flowers.
- Also known at Waterleaf, this one is in the purslane family.
Growing tropical spinach in Florida
Exceptionally hardy and versatile, tropical spinach will grow just about anywhere. In fact you may see some popping up again and again around the garden. Grow tropical spinaches where they’ll have space to spread, or in the case of Malabar spinach, vertical space for vines. Warmth and moisture are necessary for optimal growth, in full sun or part shade.
When to plant and harvest tropical spinach
In my experience these spinach types will grow just about any time, though they’ll really start taking off around March. Growth will slow down again in the cooler months.
Harvest the leaves as needed for your culinary purposes.
Getting started: what you’ll need
Most tropical spinach varieties don’t actually produce seeds and are best started from herbaceous stem cuttings. These can be found from local gardeners or I’ve found a few on Etsy.
Malabar spinach and surinam spinach do also grow from seeds which can be ordered online.
How to plant tropical spinach
This may sound daunting to the beginner gardener, but it’s as simple as sticking a stem into the dirt and keeping it moist for the first couple weeks. When you see new growth, you’ll know your cuttings are getting established in their new location. Another option is to stick stem cuttings in a jar of water and you should see roots in just a few days.
Growing tropical spinach in containers
Since tropical spinach is so versatile and does so well in Florida anyway, you should have no issue sticking cuttings in a container and seeing it thrive. Continual spinach harvest right at the kitchen window? Yes please.
3 tips on caring for your tropical spinach
- These varieties spread quickly. If this is what you desire, give them space. If not, contain them in a pot or planting bed.
- Okinawa spinach produces attractive flowers, though cutting them off will allow more energy for leaf production.
- Heavy pruning is ok, and in fact recommended. The more you harvest the more they grow.
Suggested recipes
Tropical spinach are a great addition, sautéed in just about anything. Soups and salads are a great place to start.