Okinawan Spinach (Gynura crepioides)
Nutrient-Packed Perennial Green
Common Names: Okinawan Spinach, Hong Tsoi, Longevity Spinach
Family: Asteraceae
Origin: Southeast Asia
Okinawan Spinach (Gynura crepioides) is a hardy, fast-growing perennial leafy green, prized for its nutritional benefits and striking appearance. This plant features vibrant green leaves with purple undersides, adding both color and flavor to salads, stir-fries, and smoothies. Known as a "longevity spinach" due to its nutrient density, Okinawan Spinach is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a popular addition to health-conscious diets. The plant is easy to grow, thriving in warm climates and requiring minimal care, making it ideal for home gardens and permaculture landscapes.
Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value
Foliage: Okinawan Spinach has attractive, thick, slightly crinkled green leaves with deep purple undersides. The leaves can be harvested year-round and are tender enough to be eaten raw or cooked. Rich in vitamins A and C, iron, and antioxidants, Okinawan Spinach is a superfood that supports immune health and general wellness.
Growth Habit: This low-growing, spreading plant can reach 1-2 feet in height and spread up to 3 feet wide, forming a dense ground cover. It thrives in warm, humid environments, making it a great choice for tropical and subtropical gardens.
Culinary and Medicinal Uses
Okinawan Spinach is commonly used in a variety of dishes, both raw and cooked. The tender leaves add a mild, slightly nutty flavor to salads, while their vibrant color makes them a beautiful garnish. The leaves can also be steamed, stir-fried, or blended into smoothies for an extra nutrient boost. In traditional medicine, Okinawan Spinach is believed to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and promote longevity.
Plant Type:
Perennial or Annual Evergreen Herb
Harvest Season:
Year-round
Longevity and Okinawa Spinach area perennial to zones 9-11 but can be grown as an annual and harvested in northern climates all summer long!
Mature Size:
Up to 1-3 ft tall with a spread of up to 3-4 ft wide
Soil & Moisture:
Prefers well-draining soil with ample water and nutrients. Drought tolerant once established.
Light Requirements:
Full Sun, Part Shade, Shade. Will grow in full shade but will be slightly leggy.
Self-Fertile:
Yes
Growth Rate:
Fast
Zone Hardiness:
Outdoors 9-11 with frost protection; Patio/Greenhouse 4+
Propagation:
Grown from cutting and will grow large enough for heavy production and harvest capability within one season.
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!
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