Red Molokhia Egyptian Spinach Organic Seeds (Corchorus olitorius) Nutritious leafy green used in Middle Eastern and African cuisine; fast-growing warm-season plant with traditional culinary value

$3.49

Minimum: 50+ Seeds

Red Molokhia, also known as Egyptian Spinach or Jute Mallow, is a fast-growing, heat-loving leafy green prized for centuries across North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia. Valued for its rich flavor, tender leaves, and traditional culinary importance, this highly productive warm-season plant thrives when other greens struggle.

With upright growth, beautiful reddish stems, and abundant foliage, Corchorus olitorius is both a culturally significant crop and a powerhouse addition to summer gardens.


Why Grow Red Molokhia?

🌞 Thrives in intense summer heat
🌿 Fast-growing and highly productive
🥬 Tender, nutrient-rich leaves
🌎 Traditional crop with deep culinary heritage
🪴 Ideal for raised beds and small farms

If you garden in hot climates or want to expand into culturally important heirloom greens, Red Molokhia is an outstanding choice.


Plant Profile

  • Botanical Name: Corchorus olitorius

  • Common Names: Molokhia, Egyptian Spinach, Jute Mallow

  • Plant Type: Warm-season annual

  • Growth Habit: Upright, bushy

  • Height: 3–6 feet

  • Days to Harvest: 40–60 days

  • Sun Requirement: Full sun

  • Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil

This vigorous plant produces abundant tender leaves throughout the growing season when harvested regularly.


Flavor & Culinary Uses

Molokhia has a mild, slightly earthy flavor. When cooked, the leaves develop a smooth, lightly thickened texture similar to okra.

Traditionally used in:

🍲 Molokhia stew (classic Egyptian dish)
🥣 Soups and broths
🍛 Stewed greens with garlic and coriander
🥬 Sautéed leafy green dishes
🌿 Herbal-style preparations

The leaves are typically harvested young and used fresh. Regular cutting encourages branching and continuous leaf production.


Growing Instructions

Red Molokhia thrives in heat and warm soils.

  • Direct Sow: After last frost when soil is consistently warm

  • Planting Depth: ¼–½ inch

  • Spacing: 12–18 inches

  • Germination: 7–14 days in warm conditions

  • Watering: Moderate, consistent moisture

  • Fertility: Benefits from compost-rich soil

For improved germination, seeds can be lightly soaked in warm water before planting.

Harvest leaves once plants reach 12–18 inches tall. Continue cutting to stimulate new growth.


Nutritional & Cultural Value

Molokhia is traditionally valued for:

🥬 Leafy green nutrition
🌿 Use in traditional diets
🌎 Cultural culinary importance across Egypt, Sudan, Lebanon, and West Africa
🌱 Resilience in hot climates

This plant has been cultivated for thousands of years and remains a staple green in many traditional food systems.


Garden & Permaculture Benefits

🌞 Excellent heat tolerance
🌱 Rapid biomass production
🌿 Ideal for summer succession planting
🌎 Strong addition to culturally diverse gardens

Its ability to thrive in extreme summer heat makes it perfect for Southern growers and urban gardeners looking for reliable greens.


Perfect For

🌞 Warm-climate gardeners
🌍 Cultural and heritage food growers
🥬 Summer leafy green production
🪴 Raised beds and backyard gardens
🌱 Organic and regenerative systems


Organic, Open-Pollinated Seeds

Our Red Molokhia Egyptian Spinach seeds are:

🌱 Certified Organic
🌿 Open-pollinated
🚫 Non-GMO
🌎 Selected for vigor and strong germination

If you’re looking for a nutritious, heat-tolerant leafy green with deep traditional roots and reliable summer production, Red Molokhia is an exceptional addition to your garden. Grow your own and enjoy this historic culinary staple fresh from your backyard.