Another Fantastic Summer Spinach Egyptian Spinach

Corchorus Olitorius Egyptian Spinach is a very popular seasonal vegetable in our region. Molokhia/Molokheiya, and many other names. It is believed to have been discovered in Egypt prior to Christ, and has been a staple food since time of the Pharaohs. Molokheiya, which is an Egyptian term which translates to "vegetable for the king" is the Egyptian name of the soup. Wikipedia claims that an ill Egyptian King around 6000BC demanded hot soup and was healed through the consumption of hot soup on a daily basis. Cleopatra might have also enjoyed the same soup. Egyptian Spinach as well as its numerous close connections grow across Africa and the Middle East, India and several regions of Asia. It grows in the majority of subtropical and tropical zones throughout the world.



It is planted as an annual, grows to around a meter in height and produces small yellow flowers, produces edible seed pods and leaves that can be constantly harvested. It is very hardy and is able to grow rapidly. It is a cousin of okra and can grow in the same conditions like the okra. It doesn't prefer shade.


large Egyptian spinach plant growing on lattice in green home


Are you thinking of growing one? It grows in all soil types and is not particular about the pH but obviously prefers fertile moist soil. Pots can also be used. It is easy to prepare the soil as normal. Then, you can plant the seeds directly where they will grow. Spring and autumn are the ideal times to plant. Egyptian spinach seeds germinate faster if they are bathed in soapy hot water prior to planting. Isabel Shipard suggests soaking for up to 12 hours. Once the plant has grown to about 40cm in height, you can begin picking leaves. The seeds that grow on the plant and disappear to the earth, will rest in dormancy until next year. Egyptian spinach is relatively pest and disease free. The grasshoppers and caterpillars share the leaves with you and in the heat of summer, they can be affected by red spider mites, but overall not too problematical. BOGI Seeds currently offers seeds.



The leaves are rich in proteins, minerals, and vitamins. The younger leaves can be consumed raw in salads or sandwiches and the older leaves cooked or dried. You can use leaves in the same way as spinach. In Egypt the leaves are used in traditional soups made with garlic, coriander and meat. In other areas it is made into a stew that includes rice, cassava, and even chicken meat. The vegetable can be utilized in many ways. The leaves can be dried, and شركات بيع التقاوى فى مصر then ground to make a tea. When the tea is ready you can store them in a container and use them to make the next stews or soups. In Japan it is sold in health food stores as a health tea. Young seed pods can be utilized in the same manner as Okra.



Since the Pharaohs, Egyptian spinach has been touted as having health benefits. It is a tea which can increase the immune system. Tea made of leaves can aid during the birth of a child and boost the production of milk for mothers. Also, it can be used as a wash for sore eyes as well as cuts, rashes and scrapes.



Many members of the genus Corchorus are used as a source of Jute due to their thick, sturdy fibres in their stalks. This jute was used over time to create coarse yarn that was later used as rope, and also as packing fabric. It was best to use the most tall and unbranched stems. The stems were immersed in vegetable matter for a few days to allow the fibers to begin to decay. The fibres were easily removed, then cleaned and dried. In certain regions, this fibre can also be used to create paper. Corchorus Olitorius, also referred to as Egyptian spinach, is the best utilized to create Jute. However certain of its relatives are also suitable for other purposes.