Egyptian Spinach, Corchorus olitorius, is becoming very popular as a garden vegetable in our part of the world. It is also known as Molokhia/Molokheiya or many other names. It is thought to have originated in Egypt well before the time of Christ and has been a staple food there since the time of the Pharaohs. Molokheiya, an Egyptian term meaning "vegetable for the king" is the Egyptian term used to describe the soup. Wikipedia says that an ill Egyptian King, around 6000BC, requested hot soup and was cured by drinking hot soup regularly. Cleopatra is also said to have drank the same soup. Egyptian Spinach, along with its close relatives is found throughout Africa, India, and numerous other regions of Asia. It can be found in all tropical and subtropical regions of the globe.



It is an annual. It can grow to about a metre tall it produces tiny yellow flowers, has edible seed pods and leaves that can be continually harvested. It is extremely hardy and grows rapidly. As a close relation to okra many of the same growing conditions apply, loves the heat, and can withstand dry and wet conditions (not the waterlogged) however it doesn't appreciate the shade.


huge Egyptian spinach plant growing up the lattice of the green house


Do you wish to grow some? It grows in any soil type and isn't particular about the pH but obviously prefers fertile moist soil. It can even grow in pots. Prepare your soil in your regular manner and then plant seeds in the exact spot where they will grow The ideal time for planting is between spring and autumn. Egyptian spinach seeds can grow faster if soaked in hot, soapy water prior to plant. Isabel Shipard suggests soaking for up to 12 hours. The time to pick leaves is when the plant is 40cm high. Seeds that mature on the plant and drop to the ground will lie dormant within the soil until conditions are suitable and can be used for next year's crop. Egyptian spinach is virtually free of disease and pests. The leaves are able to be used in conjunction with grasshoppers and caterpillars but they are not likely to become affected with red spider mites. BOGI Seeds is currently offering seeds.



The leaves are extremely rich in vitamin and mineral content. The younger leaves can be used for sandwiches or salads, while the older leaves can either be dried or cooked. The leaves can be utilized in the same way as spinach. The leaves can be utilized in Egypt in a soup that is traditional that includes garlic, coriander and even meat. In other areas, it can be made into a stew that includes cassava, rice, or chicken meat. There are numerous recipes for this plant. The leaves can be dried, and then ground to make a tea. After the tea has been prepared, you can put them in a container so that you can make future soups or stews. It is available in Japan through health food stores as a healthy and nutritious tea. It is possible to use seedlings that are young pods the same way as okra.



The health benefits of Egyptian spinach have been marketed since the days of the Pharaohs. It is a drink that can increase your immunity. Tea made from the leaves can aid during the birth of a child and boost milk production for mothers. It can also be used to treat eye irritation cut, rashes and other irritations.



Many of the species in the Corchorus genus can be grown as a source of jute as they have long, strong fibres in their stalks. In the past, this jute was used to make a coarse yarn which was then made into rope and sacking fabric. This was most effective with the tallest and most unbranched stems. Stems were then soaked for بذور حشيشة السودان [just click the following internet page] several days in order that the matter of the vegetable would begin to rot and the fibres easily removed. Then they were washed dried, and then sorted to use. In some regions the fibre could be used for paper. Corchorus Oltorius or Egyptian spinach is best utilized as a leaf vegetable while the other related species are better used for jute production. Última modificação em Quarta, 31 Julho 2024