Green Vines Supreme Malabar Spinach is a heat-loving annual vine that shatters the myth that spinach belongs only in cool-season gardens. This heirloom, open-pollinated cultivar produces vigorous green vines laden with thick, succulent leaves ready to harvest in just 60 to 69 days. Growing 6 to 10 feet tall, it thrives in warm climates (zones 10 to 11) and tropical conditions, making it an ideal spinach substitute for gardeners in hot, humid regions who thought traditional spinach was off-limits during summer months.
Full Sun
High
10-11
120in H x ?in W
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High
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This variety's real strength lies in its heat resilience and vigorous growth habit. Unlike traditional spinach that bolts in summer heat, Green Vines Supreme actively thrives in warm soil and air temperatures, producing abundant tender leaves throughout the season. Its vining growth makes it naturally suited to trellising, turning vertical garden space into a productive leafy green harvest. The thick, succulent texture of the leaves and the plant's ability to handle both high heat and humidity set it apart from cool-season greens.
Green Vines Supreme serves as a summer spinach substitute in warm climates where traditional spinach refuses to cooperate. The thick, succulent leaves work beautifully in cooked preparations, stir-fries, and curries where their tender texture shines. In regions with tropical or subtropical climates, it functions as a reliable warm-season leafy green for salads and fresh eating as well.
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Start seeds indoors in warm conditions (70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit) several weeks before your last spring frost. This allows plants to establish vigor before transplanting into the warm garden.
Transplant seedlings outdoors after all frost danger has passed and soil temperatures are consistently warm. Harden off plants by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions over 7 to 10 days before final transplanting. Space transplants 12 inches apart with 36 inches between rows.
Direct sow seeds outdoors after soil temperatures reach and maintain warmth above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, typically after your last frost date. Sow at appropriate depth and thin seedlings to 12-inch spacing.
Begin harvesting leaves 60 to 69 days after planting once the vines have produced tender, succulent foliage. Pinch or cut individual leaves and leaf tips from the vine, taking from the top and working downward to encourage continued branching and productivity. The plant will continue producing throughout the warm season if harvested regularly. Pick leaves when they are young and tender for the best texture and flavor.
Train vines onto trellises or support structures to maximize productivity and airflow. Pinch back growing tips early in the season to encourage branching and fuller vine development. Remove any damaged or diseased foliage as it appears to maintain plant health and vigor.
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“Basella alba, commonly called Malabar spinach, originates from tropical regions where it has been cultivated for centuries as a heat-tolerant vegetable. This particular cultivar, Green Vines Supreme, is maintained as an open-pollinated heirloom variety, allowing gardeners to save seeds year after year and preserve the lineage themselves. The variety represents a continuation of traditional seed-saving practices, keeping a non-GMO, heat-adapted spinach alternative alive for gardeners in warm climates.”