| OKINAWA 'PURPLE' SPINACH (Gynura crepioides) looks similar to a local Brazilian weed--both are purple under the leaves, but the weed has an upright growth habit and is an annual. The cultivated type, which may be a selected weed, is perennial, branching, and tends to fall over, making a bush. It grows very well in full sunshine and is pest-free. It has a tasty, pine-like flavor and did well in poor soils. Mix it with other vegetables; the unique flavor may be too strong on its own. Spinach of all kinds grows best in well-amended soil (use aged-compost or other organic matter), but will tolerate poor soil. Be sure to provide regular water. |
