Tropical and subtropical vegetables (2+1)

Importance and utility

Basella
Botanical name : Basella alba
Family : Basellaceae
Chromosome No. : 2n = 44, 48
Common name : Malabar night shade/poi/ Indian spinach

Importance and utility
The plant is a climbing vine with think fleshy stem and leaves. The different botanical forms are available viz., Basella rubra, Basella cannifolia, Basella cordifolia. They are chopped and cooked as vegetables and has ornamental value. It is a rich source of vitamin A (3250 IU/100g), protein (1.2%) and rich source of iron (1.4mg/100g). The succulent leaves with petioles and tender leaves are cooked as vegetables.