Water Spinach (Water Convolvulus) Seeds
Botanical Name: Ipomoea aquatica
Other Names: Kangkong, Bamboo Leaf, Chinese Spinach, Morning Glory, Chinese Watercress
- Fast-growing, trailing aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial with hollow stems and arrow-shaped leaves.
- Highly productive, vigorous plant reaching 2–3 m long and growing up to 10 cm per day.
- Thrives in tropical and subtropical regions with high rainfall or wet soil.
- Mild, spinach-like flavour with tender young leaves and crunchy stems.
- Excellent in stir-fries, soups, stews, or blanched as a leafy green.
- Ideal for container growing to prevent spreading in garden beds.
Plant Details
- Plant Type: Aquatic or semi-aquatic perennial vegetable (grown as an annual in cooler regions)
- Plant Height: Vines up to 2–3 m long
Sowing Information
- Germination: 7–14 days (optimal soil temperature 25–30°C)
- Depth: 1 cm deep
- Position: Full sun
- Sow Where: Direct into wet garden beds, ponds, or containers
- Soil Type: Moist to saturated soil, rich in organic matter
- Spacing: 20–30 cm between plants for vigorous growth
Growing Tips
- Water consistently to maintain wet or boggy soil conditions.
- Grow in large tubs or pots partly submerged in water to control spreading.
- Harvest young shoots regularly to encourage bushier regrowth.
- Do not harvest more than 1/3 of the foliage at once to allow plants to recover.
- Protect from frost and cold weather; best suited to warm climates.
Harvest
50–60 days after sowing. Cut tender shoots and leaves for continuous harvest.
When to Sow Water Spinach in Your Climate
| Climate Zone | Best Planting Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Tropical | All year round | Best grown in warm, wet conditions. Maintain saturated soil or shallow water. |
| Subtropical | September–April | Plant during warm months. Avoid frost periods. |
| Temperate | Late spring–summer | Grow in pots or tubs in the warmest months. Protect from cold. |
| Arid | Spring–summer | Ensure constant moisture. Grow in containers partly submerged in water. |
| Cool | Not recommended | Prefers warm climates. Consider alternative leafy greens. |
