Okinawa Spinach

Okinawa Spinach (Gynura bicolor) – 4–5 Inch Pot
Available in Jupiter, FL. at Urban Abundance.

Nutritious, colorful, and nearly bulletproof in heat—Okinawa Spinach is a summer superstar in South Florida gardens. With glossy green leaves and vibrant purple undersides, this edible ornamental brings both beauty and function to your garden bed or container. A member of the Asteraceae family, it’s a heat-loving perennial leafy green that thrives during our warmest months and keeps growing with minimal effort.

Sold in a 4–5 inch pot, Okinawa Spinach is an excellent choice for edible borders, ground covers, or tropical-style veggie beds.

Sunlight Needs: Partial shade to full sun. Prefers morning sun with some afternoon protection in peak summer.
Watering Needs: Moderate. Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy, especially during hot weather.
Soil Requirements: Rich, well-drained soil with compost or organic matter. Tolerates a range of soil types.
Growth Habit: Sprawling and low-growing. Reaches 12–18 inches tall and spreads readily.
Harvest Timing: Begin light harvesting of leaves within 3–4 weeks after transplanting. Cut-and-come-again style harvesting promotes more growth.
Heat Tolerance: Excellent. One of the most reliable summer greens in South Florida.
Special Features:

• High in antioxidants, iron, and fiber

• Gorgeous two-toned foliage adds edible flair

• Can be eaten raw or lightly cooked

• Regrows easily after cutting and can be propagated from cuttings

South Florida Notes: Okinawa Spinach is tailor-made for our summer season. Plant it in spring and enjoy fresh greens all summer long when other leafy crops struggle. It grows well in containers, raised beds, or directly in the ground with mulch. Protect from cold snaps—while technically perennial, it may die back in frost but often rebounds.

Next steps after purchase:

• Transplant into a rich, well-drained area with partial sun

• Space 12–18 inches apart or allow it to spread as a groundcover

• Water consistently, especially during hot, dry weeks

• Harvest outer leaves regularly to encourage bushy growth

• Pinch stems to shape and maintain density

This is a perennial leafy green—meaning it can live for multiple years in South Florida with proper care, especially when protected during the cooler months.