Sambung Nyawa, Daun Dewa, Moluccan Spinach, Cholesterol Spinach, Leaves of the Gods
Gynura procumbens
🌿 Morphology
🌞 Growing conditions
🌍 Origin and family
🌾 Uses
Warning: Despite the care taken in writing this sheet, it is essential to cross-reference sources before using or consuming any plant. When in doubt, consult a qualified professional
Permaculture uses
Edible leaves used raw in salads or cooked as a spinach substitute. Reported medicinal uses include treatment for hypertension, diabetes, and inflammation, although more research is needed. Easy to propagate and fast-growing, making it suitable for filling ground cover and creating edible landscapes. May be used as a living mulch.
Permapeople description
Longevity spinach, also known as Gynura procumbens, is a flowering plant native to East and Southeast Asia. It is a perennial shrub that typically grows to about 1-3 feet in height and has a dense, upright habit. The leaves are alternate, lanceolate in shape, and are a deep green color on the top side with a velvety, purple underside. The plant produces small, yellow flowers that are grouped together in clusters at the ends of the stems.
Longevity spinach is relatively easy to grow and can be cultivated in a variety of soil types. It prefers a moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It is not frost hardy, so it should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Longevity spinach is edible and the leaves, stems, and young shoots can be eaten raw or cooked. They have a slightly bitter taste and are often used in salads, soups, and stir-fries. The leaves can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week after harvest.
In addition to its culinary uses, longevity spinach has a number of medicinal properties. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-diabetic effects, and has been used traditionally to treat a variety of ailments. It is also high in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to the diet.
Longevity spinach is attractive to a variety of pollinators and can provide a source of nectar and pollen for bees and other insects. It is also a useful plant for improving soil health, as it has the ability to fix nitrogen in the soil.
Botanical description
Gynura procumbens is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Asteraceae family, native to Southeast Asia. It features succulent, slightly fuzzy, dark green leaves with toothed margins. The plant has a creeping or sprawling growth habit, reaching up to 1 meter in length. Flowers are small, yellow, and inconspicuous, borne in clusters. Stems are purplish-green and easily root at the nodes. Prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. It is frost-sensitive and typically grown as an annual or indoor plant in temperate climates.
Companion planting
No specific companion planting information is widely available. Generally, it benefits from being grown alongside plants that provide partial shade. Avoid planting near aggressive growers that may outcompete it.
Propagation methods
Easily propagated from stem cuttings. Cuttings root readily in water or directly in moist soil. Can also be propagated by layering. Seed propagation is possible, but less common.
History and traditions
Traditionally used in Southeast Asian medicine for a wide range of ailments, including high blood pressure, diabetes, and skin conditions. Its use as a folk remedy has led to increased interest in its potential medicinal properties and scientific research into its compounds.
Usage calendar
Harvest leaves year-round in warm climates. Flowering occurs sporadically throughout the year. Cuttings can be taken and planted at any time, but best results are achieved during the growing season. Pruning can be done as needed to control growth and encourage bushier foliage.