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Genus Basella (Malabar spinach, Ceylon spinach, Indian spinach)

Basella Basella alba 'Rubra' Photo/Illustration: Amy Ziffer
bah-SEL-lah Common Name: Malabar spinach, Ceylon spinach, Indian spinach
Reddish stems contrast with rich green, shimmering leaves; the flowers are white, rose, pink, or purple, and dark-purple fruits follow them. Basella is a rarity that adds whimsy to the vegetable garden or flower border.
 Noteworthy characteristics: While not a true spinach, it is grown in Asia as a heat-tolerant, leafy green vegetable. The vine has thick, glossy leaves, and can grow to 10 feet and looks great climbing up sturdy bamboo trellises.
 Care: Grow in fertile, well-drained soil, in full sun to partial shade.
 Propagation: Sow seeds 6 to 8 weeks before last frost.