Malabar Spinach Red - 3" Starter Pot - Basella rubra

Name: Red Malabar Spinach

Scientific Name: Basella rubra

Family: Basellaceae

Product Description:

Red Malabar Spinach is a fast-growing, tropical climbing vine known for its vibrant red-purple stems and succulent, glossy green leaves. Despite its name, it is not a true spinach but shares a similar taste with a slightly peppery and citrus-like undertone. The plant thrives in hot, humid climates, making it an excellent alternative to traditional spinach during warm seasons. It produces small pinkish flowers and dark purple berries, which add ornamental appeal to gardens.

The red variety is a bit smaller overall compared to the green but what it lacks in size, it makes up in leaf color and nutrient content- And don’t let the word smaller scare ya! The red will still completely cover a fence! Giving plenty of leafy greens to harvest!

Origination: Native to Asia

Historic Uses: Ornamental vine for trellises and edible leafy green

Height: Up to 10 feet

Hardiness: USDA Zones 7–10

Flower Color: Pinkish

Maturity: 20-30 Days- Leaves begin growing immediately

Other Names: Vine Spinach, Ceylon Spinach, Creeping Spinach

Growing Instructions:

Red Malabar Spinach thrives in full sun and prefers well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly alkaline pH (7–8). Water consistently to maintain moisture, as it prefers humid conditions. Provide a trellis or support for climbing growth. Harvest leaves regularly for continued production, and allow berries to mature for seed collection.

Ships in 3" pots. You will receive a plant similar to the ones pictured, though size and fullness may vary. Please understand that shipped plants have bumpy rides. A few broken leaves or small stems are normal during shipping and are not considered damage. Broken stems can be rooted once the cut end dries to start new growth. Plants may arrive semi‑dormant, and in winter they may naturally drop a few leaves. If your plant arrives rotting or dead, we will replace it. Please contact us with photo proof within 24 hours of delivery. After 24 hours, plant care becomes the buyer’s responsibility, though we’re always happy to answer questions and help you succeed. We also add brief instructions on getting started when you open your box. We want our plant babies to have happy new homes! 🥰

Heat packs are available to purchase in our shop for cold-sensitive plants. Keep in mind some plants we carry are very tropical and even cold, not freezing, temperatures can kill them. 📌IF YOU EXPECT COLD WEATHER, PLEASE PURCHASE A HEAT PACK! 📌 These are necessary for winter shipping, so I sell them at cost. I won't refund or replace any frozen plants unless you buy one!

❗Please Read!❗

Items cannot be shipped to CALIFORNIA or ARIZONA easily due to state import laws. All plants shipped there must be inspected before entry. Seed-grown herbaceous plants may not survive transit. I cannot guarantee herbaceous plant orders from these states, so order at your own risk. Hoyas, cacti, and succulents are an exception. My apologies for any inconvenience.