Okinawa Spinach
Crassocephalum crepidioidesfam. Asteraceae
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Pl. 20E6 — Crassocephalum crepidioides
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IOverview
Overview
Okinawa Spinach, scientifically known as Crassocephalum crepidioides, is a perennial plant native to regions including Angola, Benin, Cameroon, and Ethiopia. It thrives in various habitats across Africa, from full sun to partial shade and prefers moist conditions with light or medium soil. This plant can grow up to 0.8 meters tall and is known for its edible leaves and roots, making it a valuable addition to gardens and culinary uses. Its adaptability to different lighting conditions and environments makes Okinawa Spinach a versatile choice for gardeners in similar climates.
Quick answers
What is Okinawa Spinach?
Okinawa Spinach, scientifically known as Crassocephalum crepidioides, is a perennial plant native to regions including Angola, Benin, Cameroon, and Ethiopia. It thrives in various habitats across Africa, from full sun to partial shade and prefers moist conditions with light or medium soil.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Okinawa Spinach thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-draining soil that is light (sandy) or medium. It grows up to 0.8 meters tall and can be propagated through its leaves or roots. Hardy in zones 10-12, this perennial is suitable for temperate regions but may require protection in colder areas. Keep the soil consistently moist for best growth.
Light
Full sun, Partial sun/shade, Full shade
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium
Hardiness
10-12
Life cycle
Perennial
Mature size
0.8 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Okinawa Spinach for the first time
7steps
Start with easy care and light requirements for Okinawa Spinach.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or small plants, a container or garden bed, potting soil, water.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost, when temperatures are mild.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Use well-draining soil with some sand for lightness. Ensure containers have drainage holes.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds 0.5 inches deep in the soil, spacing them about 12-18 inches apart. Transplant small plants if needed.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Place in a sunny spot or partial shade.
- 6
Ongoing care
Water when the top inch of soil feels dry, and provide full sun to partial shade. Pinch back stems for bushier growth.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune regularly by pinching off leaves as needed for harvesting. This encourages new growth.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:LeavesRoot
Edible uses: The Okinawa Spinach's leaves and roots are edible. The leaves can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. Roots are typically boiled before consumption. Both parts add a mild, spinach-like flavor to dishes.
Other uses:Animal feedTannin
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
26 native · 4 introduced
Distribution
26 native · 4 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 26 native· 4 introduced
Americas2 regions
introduced (2)JamaicaPuerto Rico
Africa19 regions
native (19)AngolaBeninCameroonCôte d'IvoireEswatiniEthiopiaGabonGhanaGuineaLiberiaMadagascarMozambiqueNigeriaSenegalSierra LeoneSudanTogoZambiaZimbabwe
Broader regions
native:Congo, KwaZulu-Natal, Northern Provinces, Zaïre, Cape Provinces, Central African Repu, Gulf of Guinea Is.
introduced:Society Is., Queensland
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Asteraceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Asteraceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
Explore further
Companion planting
Compare with similar plants
Growing zone
XII
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