Basella alba
Ceylon spinach
A climbing or scrambling perennial that is grown as a summer annual in Britain. Edible leaves are used in similar ways to spinach. Small white flowers, sometimes with purplish tints, make this an attractive addition to a vegetable garden
Other common names
East Indian spinachIndian spinach
see moreMalabar nightshade
Malabar spinach
red Malabar nightshade
Synonyms
Basella rubra
Buy this plant
Size
Ultimate height
1.5–2.5 metresTime to ultimate height
1 yearUltimate spread
0.1–0.5 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drainedpH
Neutral, Acid, AlkalineColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | White Purple | Green | ||
| Autumn | White Purple | Green | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H1CBotanical details
- Family
- Basellaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Climbing
- Name status
Correct
How to grow
Cultivation
Plant out after the risk of frost has passed. Fertile, moisture retentive soil in full sun will produce good growth. Harvest young leaves; frequent picking will encourage more growth. Provide support for stems to twine up
Propagation
Propagate by seed. See sowing vegetable seeds
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Patio and container plants
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
No pruning required
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
Generally disease-free
Love gardening
Sign up to receive regular gardening tips, inspiration, offers and more
View our Privacy Policy
Get involved
The Royal Horticultural Society is the UK’s leading gardening charity. We aim to enrich everyone’s life through plants, and make the UK a greener and more beautiful place.