Okinawa Spinach (Gynura crepioides)

Okinawa Spinach Okinawa Spinach (Gynura crepioides)

Okay, let’s explore Okinawa Spinach (Gynura crepioides) in the context of Florida:

1. What is Okinawa Spinach?

• Okinawa Spinach, also known as Gynura crepioides, is a fast-growing, perennial leafy green native to Southeast Asia and belonging to the Asteraceae (sunflower) family.
• It’s not a true spinach but a heat-loving substitute, valued for its nutritional benefits and striking appearance.
• It has vibrant green leaves with distinctive purple undersides.
• It features a crisp, succulent texture and a slightly nutty flavor, with hints of pine, especially in younger shoots.
• It can grow up to 70 cm tall, forming a bushy habit, and can also be pruned to remain low to the ground.
• It thrives in warm, humid environments, making it suitable for Florida’s climate. 

2. Growing Okinawa Spinach in Florida:

• Climate: Okinawa Spinach is well-suited for the warm, humid subtropical and tropical climates of Florida, particularly in USDA zones 9-11.
• Sunlight: It prefers full sun to partial shade, and can tolerate a range of light conditions.
• Soil: It is adaptable to various soil types but prefers well-drained soil.
• Watering: It requires regular watering, especially during establishment, and benefits from mulching to conserve moisture.
• Propagation: Easily propagated from stem cuttings, as it rarely produces viable seeds.
• Harvesting: Leaves and tender shoots can be harvested year-round in Florida. 

3. Uses:

• Culinary: Okinawa Spinach is edible both raw and cooked.
  • Raw: Young leaves can be added to salads for a nutty, slightly piney flavor and vibrant color.
  • Cooked: Steamed, stir-fried, added to soups, stews, and smoothies for their nutritional value.
• Ornamental: Its attractive green and purple leaves make it a beautiful addition to edible gardens and landscapes.
• Groundcover: It forms a dense ground cover, suppressing weeds and adding visual appeal. 

4. Nutritional Value:

• Rich in vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, potassium, and antioxidants.
• Some claim it can help lower cholesterol, hence the nickname “cholesterol spinach”. 

5. Where to Find in Florida:

• Nurseries: Look for Okinawa Spinach at local nurseries and garden centers.
• Online Retailers: You may find it available from online retailers specializing in tropical plants. 

In summary, Okinawa Spinach is a great addition to Florida gardens and kitchens, offering a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional spinach, with added ornamental value.