How to grow Malabar spinach in a raised bed

Malabar spinach is a lush, climbing tropical vine with thick, glossy leaves — a beautiful, heat-proof spinach substitute that climbs a trellis and crops all summer when true spinach can't cope.

Quick facts

• Position: full sun; loves heat
• Spacing: 30–40 cm apart
• Tub depth: our 23 cm+ depth
• Time to harvest: 8–10 weeks
• Support: a trellis to climb

When should I plant Malabar spinach?

Malabar spinach is frost-tender and heat-loving — plant from late spring through summer. It's a perennial in frost-free areas. Our free garden calendar shows the right months for your postcode.

• Subtropical (Brisbane & SEQ): September to February
• Temperate (Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth): October to December
• Cool & mountain (Tasmania, Canberra, highlands): Not really suited to this zone
• Tropical (Cairns, Darwin): September to March
• Arid inland: September to October

How do I grow Malabar spinach in a raised bed?

Plant into rich, moist mix at the base of a trellis and let it climb — it's ornamental as well as edible, with red or green stems. Pinch tips to keep it productive.

How often should I water and feed Malabar spinach?

Keep the mix moist for tender, succulent leaves; it thrives on warmth and water.

What pests attack Malabar spinach?

Keep an eye out for aphids and caterpillars. Most are easily managed — see our safe pest guide.

What diseases affect Malabar spinach?

The main one is leaf spot, usually from damp, crowded conditions. Good airflow and morning watering prevent most.

What grows well with Malabar spinach?

A gorgeous edible climber; give it a trellis of its own. See our companion planting guide.

When do I harvest Malabar spinach?

Pick young leaves and tips regularly. They're thicker than true spinach, best lightly cooked or added to stir-fries and curries.

More growing guides: warrigal greens, kangkong and spinach.

Plan your patch: our free garden calendar shows what to plant now where you live. Ready to grow? Browse our raised garden beds or build your own with the garden bed builder.

Image: RJ Raawat, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.