The Water Spinach

I'm fascinated by the blooms of the water spinach. Belonging to
the same family as the Morning Glory, the blooms of both these
plants look similar.The botanical name of the water spinach is
"Ipomoea Aquatica". Googling , I came up with several other names
such as Swamp Morning Glory, Chinese water spinach and swamp cabbage.

The flowers are generally white, pink and mauve. The wetland
near our house has this plant thriving amongst the colacasia
and myriad tangle of weeds. The flowers stand out in their
beauty amidst such surroundings.


The water spinach is an aquatic or semi-aquatic plant. It is
found in all tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world.
In the right conditions, the plant can be 8 to 10 ft long. The
stems are hollow which enables it to stay afloat on water. Due
to the hollow stem the Chinese word for this vegetable translates
into "hollow heart vegetable".

As you can see from the photographs, the leaves are shaped like
arrowheads. The stems have a milky sap and roots form at the nodes,
so propagation is easy. Either seeds or stems are used.

Although this plant is native to south-east Asia, it is found
in many parts of the world where the conditions are right.It
is popular in our parts too. The vegetable markets here, always
have fresh green bundles. Although every part is edible, tender
stems and leaves are preferred. Like many green vegetables, the
water spinach is rich in iron and has a pleasant taste. Stir
fries are delicious!

I was surprised to find out that the water spinach is considered
a threat/noxious weed in southern U.S. states, mainly Texas and
Florida.The reasons are that it elevates mosquito breeding, impedes
boat traffic and clogs drainage canals. It is also considered a
threat to rice fields.

But here in my backyard I'm growing it in a small patch.....The
sight of the blooms is enough to uplift my spirits on any day!!