Family: Basellaceae

Basella alba, commonly known as Malabar spinach, is a fast-growing leafy vine native to tropical Asia. Unlike true spinach, this hardy plant thrives in warm climates and produces thick, glossy leaves that are popular in many cuisines. Its vigorous climbing habit makes it easy to grow on trellises or fences, and its lush foliage is both edible and visually appealing in home gardens.

In Hawaiʻi, Basella alba is naturalized on Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, and Hawaiʻi Island, and its ability to spread quickly has raised concerns. The vine roots at its nodes, forms dense tangles, and can outcompete surrounding vegetation, allowing it to move beyond cultivation. Because of these traits, it is not recommended for cultivation in Hawaiʻi. Gardeners are encouraged to choose safer alternatives to prevent unintentional spread and protect native and managed landscapes from this vigorous species.

High Risk Traits:

• Fast-growing, smothering climbing vine
  
• Reproduces by rhizomes and stem fragments
  
• Bird-dispersed seeds that survive gut passage
  
• Tolerates pruning and mutilation
  
• Self-compatible (does not need cross-pollination)
  
• Rapid generation time (<1 year)
  
• Documented as naturalized in multiple regions
  
• Reported as a garden/disturbance weed
  
• Tolerates varied soil conditions

Low Risk Traits:

• Limited to tropical/subtropical climates (frost-sensitive)
  
• Low seed production
  
• Palatable to animals and humans
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Limited unintentional dispersal (not by wind, produce, or fur)