Description

Longevity Spinach (Gynura procumbens) is a fast-growing, vining perennial green with highly nutritious, tender leaves. Native to Southeast Asia, it is commonly used in traditional medicine and as a food source due to its high antioxidant content and reported health benefits.

The plant spreads vigorously, making it excellent for ground cover in warm climates. It thrives in a variety of soil conditions but prefers rich, well-drained soil. It is highly adaptable and can be grown in containers, raised beds, or directly in the ground.

🌞💧 Sun and Water Requirements:
- Prefers partial shade to full sun.
- Thrives in warm, humid conditions but can tolerate drier environments with sufficient watering.
- Requires well-draining, loamy, or sandy soil; does not tolerate waterlogging.

✂️🫘 Methods to Propagate:
- Cuttings: The easiest method; cut stems and root them in water or moist soil.
- Layering: Allow stems to touch the soil, where they will develop roots naturally.
- Seeds: Less commonly used as propagation is much faster via cuttings.

🧑‍🌾👩‍🌾 When to Harvest:
- Leaves can be harvested year-round in warm climates.
- Regular pruning encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess.
- Young leaves are preferred for the best texture and flavor.

Purpose

Longevity Spinach serves multiple functions in a permaculture system:

- Edible: A nutritious leafy green used in salads, stir-fries, and soups.
- Medicinal: Traditionally used to lower blood sugar, cholesterol, and inflammation.
- Wildlife Attractor: Provides nectar for pollinators when flowering.
- Mulcher: Can be chopped and dropped to improve soil health.
- Dynamic Accumulator: Draws up beneficial minerals from the soil.
- Erosion Control: Its dense root system helps stabilize soil.
- Border Plant: Works well as an edging plant for vegetable and herb gardens.