Basella alba (Malabar spinach) is a tender perennial climbing vine native to tropical Asia. It is unrelated to true spinach but produces similar dark green, thick leaves and thrives in hot weather conditions unsuitable for conventional spinach.
Before sowing
Scarification or water soaking recommended for faster germination
Sowing
What to expect
Tips
Light promotes germination but seeds can germinate in darkness. Red light stimulates germination while far-red light inhibits it. Optimal temperature is 25°C under dark conditions. Germination is faster at 80°F+. Seeds have physical dormancy. Plant does not tolerate frost and requires soil temperature above 65°F before planting outdoors.
Sources: University of Florida IFAS Extension (HS1371), Gardening Know How, Wisconsin Horticulture, St. Clare Seeds, J-STAGE research publication on Basella alba germination physiology
