Gynura procumbens (often called longevity spinach) is a tropical leafy herb that’s fairly easy to grow and is valued both as an edible green and for traditional herbal use.
How to grow it
Light
- Best in bright, indirect light or partial shade.
- Morning sun is fine, but harsh afternoon sun can scorch leaves.
Soil
- Use loose, well-draining soil rich in compost.
- A mix of garden soil + compost + sand/perlite works well.
Water
- Keep soil lightly moist.
- Don’t let it stay soggy, or roots may rot.
- Water when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry.
Temperature
- Likes warm weather: ideally 20–32°C.
- Protect from cold and frost.
Pot or ground
- Grows well in pots, grow bags, or directly in the ground.
- Choose a pot with drainage holes.
Feeding
- Add compost every few weeks, or use diluted liquid fertilizer monthly.
Pruning
- Pinch stem tips often to make it bushy.
- Regular leaf harvesting helps new growth.
Propagation
- Very easy from stem cuttings:
- Cut a healthy 10–15 cm stem.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Place in water or moist soil.
- Roots usually appear in 1–2 weeks.
Benefits
As a vegetable
- Leaves are edible raw or lightly cooked.
- Can be added to salads, dal, soups, stir-fries, or chutney.
Nutritional value
- Contains fiber, antioxidants, and plant compounds.
Traditional uses
- Commonly used in Southeast Asia for:
- supporting general wellness
- helping with inflammation
- blood sugar support
- blood pressure support
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