Harley Seeds Malabar Red Stem Spinach Seeds – Heirloom Basella rubra (Phooi Leaf)

Meet Harley Seeds Malabar Red Stem Spinach

Basella rubra, commonly known as Phooi leaf or Alugbati, is a heat-loving climbing spinach with vivid red vines and glossy, tender leaves. This versatile tropical green adds drama to trellises and flavor to plates. It thrives in warm climates, growing up to impressive heights, and can function as an annual in cooler regions or as a perennial in subtropical zones. Compared with the green-stem variety, the red-stem version tends to grow more rapidly, delivering abundant harvests with bold color that enhances both salads and stir-fries.

In the kitchen, Malabar spinach shines in a range of dishes—from light salads to hearty noodle bowls. Leaves wilt quickly and pair well with garlic, sesame, and chili, while the red stems provide a striking visual contrast. The plant is also known for thickening soups and stews, offering body and flavor even when used in modest amounts. With its climbing habit, this vine can be trained on a trellis to save garden space and create an edible vertical feature.

Growing essentials

• Seed preparation: soak seeds for two days, then rub off the casings before planting to awaken germination.
• Germination and spacing: 14–21 days to sprout, 70–75°F soil; space 10–12 inches apart; rows 30–36 inches.
• Light and climate: full sun; hardy in zones 5–11; indoor sowing is recommended to start transplants.
• Harvest timing: 60–65 days to maturity; first leaves are tender and ideal for fresh use.

Care and harvest tips

• Keep soil evenly moist; avoid letting seeds dry out during establishment.
• Plant depth about 1/2 inch; ensure warm soil to support robust growth.
• Regular pruning of vines encourages new leaf production and easier harvests.

Why this variety stands out

This heirloom, non-GMO option features reddish-purple stems and glossy dark green leaves. Its climbing habit adds vertical interest to gardens and containers, while harvested leaves bring bright flavor to a range of recipes. Use it to complement stir-fries, soups, salads, or noodle dishes, and consider training the vines on a trellis for a decorative edible display.

Practical notes

Ideal for late spring to early summer sowing in sunny, well-drained soil. In regions 5–11, you can enjoy this plant as an annual or perennial in warmer climates. Starting indoors can help you enjoy earlier yields and extend the growing season.