Water leaf (Ceylon spinach)

Water leaf (Talinum fruticosum) is also known as Ceylon spinach which is a perennial, green, bushy plant grows up to 1m height. Water leaf is a native of Brazil and cultivated it in various parts of the tropics as a leafy vegetable. African countries, Indonesia, Malaysia, West Indies, and Arab countries are dominating in the large scale cultivation of water leaf. Sambar cheera, Cariru, Surinam purslane, Philippine spinach, Potherb fame flower, Lagos bologi and sweetheart are other common names of Water leaf. In Kerala it is known as sambar cheera and the leaves and stems are uses in so many tasty recipes. Water leaf is rich in vitamins like A & C, and minerals like iron & calcium.

Natural distribution

We could see water leaf as a weed naturally on road sides, waste places and forest edges of the entire tropical region.

Uses

• Leaves, tender stems and flowers of this leafy vegetable are used in a number of recipes for cooking and in salads.
• Used for the treatment measles and diabetics.
• Being a best ornamental plant, water leaf is used as a potted plant or as an edging plant in gardens.

Propagation

Water leaf could easily propagate from seeds or stem cuttings. It prefers a well drained but moist humus rich and fertile soil. We could start harvesting it after completing 35-45 days from sowing the seed and continue it every two weeks up to one year.

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