Okinawan Spinach (Gynura crepioides)
Regular price $19.95Nutrient-Packed Green with Purple Undersides
Okinawan Spinach (Gynura crepioides), also known as Longevity Spinach, Hong Tsoi, or Okinawan Spinach, is a hardy, fast-growing perennial leafy green prized for its nutritional value and striking appearance. Its thick, slightly crinkled green leaves have deep purple undersides, adding a beautiful pop of color to the garden while providing a steady supply of edible greens.
This low-growing, spreading plant can reach 1–2 ft. tall and spread up to 3 ft. wide, forming a dense ground cover in warm, humid environments. The tender leaves can be harvested year-round and enjoyed raw or cooked, making Okinawan Spinach an easy and productive addition to tropical and subtropical gardens.
Cultural & Culinary Significance
Okinawan Spinach is especially popular in tropical and subtropical gardens as both a culinary green and a traditional wellness plant. The tender leaves have a mild, slightly nutty flavor and can be enjoyed fresh in salads, used as a colorful garnish, steamed, stir-fried, or blended into smoothies. Known as “Longevity Spinach,” the plant is traditionally valued for its nutrient-rich leaves and its association with wellness and longevity.
Why Grow Okinawan Spinach?
- Produces tender edible leaves year-round
- Striking green foliage with deep purple undersides
- Mild, slightly nutty flavor for salads and cooked dishes
- Fast-growing and easy to harvest
- Forms a dense, spreading ground cover in warm gardens
Growing Tips
(Also known as: Okinawan Spinach, Hong Tsoi, Longevity Spinach*)*
Plant Okinawan Spinach in full sun to part shade and rich, well-draining soil. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during hot weather. Harvest leaves regularly to encourage fresh growth and a bushier plant. It thrives in warm, humid conditions and grows well in containers or garden beds.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Gynura bicolor / Gynura procumbens |
| Common Names | Okinawa Spinach, Okinawan Spinach, Longevity Spinach |
| Family | Asteraceae |
| Origin | Southeast Asia |
| Plant Type | Perennial or Annual Evergreen Herb |
| Life Cycle | Perennial in Zones 9–11; can be grown as an annual in northern climates |
| Mature Size | 1–3 ft. tall × 3–4 ft. wide |
| Light | Full Sun, Part Shade, Shade; will grow in full shade but may be slightly leggy |
| Water Needs | Ample water; drought-tolerant once established |
| Soil | Well-draining soil with ample water and nutrients |
| Bloom Time | Seasonal |
| Flower Color | Orange |
| USDA Zones | Outdoors 9–11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+ |
| Florida Native | No |
| Propagation | Cuttings |
| Seasonal Traits | Evergreen |
| Self-Fertile | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Harvest Season | Year-round |
| Time to Harvest | Within one season; cuttings grow large enough for heavy production and harvest capability |
See More:
Sow Exotic carries many different varieties of tropical perennial greens including Okinawa Spinach, Longevity Spinach, Sissoo Spinach and annuals like Lagos Spinach and Malabar Spinach.
Grow them all together in our Summer Spin-Off: Tropical Greens Bundle.
Wondering about your USDA Growing Zone and what you can grow? 🌎🌿 Learn how to find your Zone and grow tropical plants anywhere—Florida to Alaska! 👉 Read the full blog here!
We ship every plant plastic-free and planet-friendly—using compostable packaging, recyclable pots, and carbon-conscious shipping from start to finish. 🌎🌱👉 Our Commitment to Packaging & Shipping Sustainability
