Poi Saag, Malabar Spinach (Basella alba)
Heat-Loving Green • Climbing Vine
California Warm Climate Tested
Grow poi (Malabar spinach), a vigorous summer vine that thrives in heat and delivers steady harvests for dal, sabzi, and light gravies.
Easy Grow Info
Harvest young leaves regularly to keep plants producing tender growth.
Sun
Full sun to light shade
Type
Warm season annual vine
Start Method
Direct sow or transplant after warmth
Vine Length
6–10 ft with trellis
Why We Grow It
We grow poi because it’s one of the easiest leafy greens to grow through California heat. When traditional greens slow down in summer, poi keeps producing, giving you a steady supply of fresh leaves that fit naturally into dal, sabzi, and everyday home cooking.
Grower’s Corner
Grower’s Corner: How to Grow Malabar Spinach and Other Heat-Loving Greens
Read the full guide on Grower’s Corner.
Grower’s Corner • 5–7 min read
Read the guide