Status:
valid
Authors:
L.
Source:
wcs
Year:
1753
Citation Micro:
Sp. Pl. : 272 (1753)
WFO Identifier:
wfo-0000823202
Common Names
- Basella Alba
- Alba Orchid
- Indian Spinach
Description
Basella alba (also called Alba basella, among many other common names) is a vine that grows up to 5 meters tall. It is native to tropical regions and is found in humid, tropical forests.
Uses & Benefits
Basella alba is used as a leafy vegetable and has antioxidant properties.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
Basella alba has white, bell-shaped flowers with five petals and yellow anthers. Its seeds are small, black and round. The seedlings are small and have a single cotyledon.
Cultivation and Propagation
Basella alba is a perennial plant that can be propagated from cuttings or by division. It prefers a well-drained soil in a sunny or partially shaded position. It is drought tolerant and can tolerate temperatures down to -5°C. It can be propagated by taking cuttings in spring or summer and rooting them in a mix of sand and peat. It can also be propagated by division in spring or autumn.
Where to Find Basella alba
Basella alba can be found in tropical regions of Asia, Africa, and the Americas.
Basella alba FAQ
What is the scientific name of Basella alba?
Basella alba
What is the common name of Basella alba?
Malabar Spinach
Where is Basella alba native to?
Tropical Asia
Species in the Basella genus
Species in the Basellaceae family
Anredera aspera,
Anredera baselloides,
Anredera brachystachys,
Anredera cordifolia,
Anredera densiflora,
Anredera diffusa,
Anredera floribunda,
Anredera krapovickasii,
Anredera marginata,
Anredera ramosa,
Anredera tucumanensis,
Anredera vesicaria,
Basella alba,
Basella excavata,
Basella leandriana,
Basella madagascariensis,
Basella paniculata,
Tournonia hookeriana,
Ullucus tuberosus,