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Cnidoscolus aconitifolius variegatus - Variegated Chaya Jatropha

Cnidoscolus aconitifolius variegatus - Variegated Chaya Jatropha

7050 Cnidoscolus aconitifolius variegatus - Variegated Chaya Jatropha

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Large shrub 5-10 ft tallSmall tree 10-20 ftSemi-shadeRegular waterOrnamental foliageWhite, off-white flowersEdible plantSpice or herb plantEthnomedical plant. Plants marked as ethnomedical and/or described as medicinal, are not offered as medicine but rather as ornamentals or plant collectibles. Ethnomedical statements / products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We urge all customers to consult a physician before using any supplements, herbals or medicines advertised here or elsewhere.Irritating plant

Variegated Maya Spinach Tree is also called Cnidoscolus aconitifolius variegatus cv. Jatropha, or Variegated Chaya, Variegated Tree Spinach, a rare colorful cultivar of the Classic Chaya. It is a succulent perennial shrub or small tree with showy cut foliage in heavily divided fans with a creamy variegation. It sends out small clusters of white flowers, a nice bonus. Sunny location dry between watering. The leaves can be cooked and eaten, similar to spinach (but are toxic raw). But, really it's just stunning as an ornamental alone!
Chaya Col, Kikilchay, Chaykeken - a little known leafy green vegetable. Younger leaves and a bit of the stems are cut and used much like spinach. Leaves are immersed and simmered for 20 minutes and then served with oil or butter. Chaya is a nutritious leafy green native to the Yucatan Peninsula, rich in protein, calcium, iron, and vitamins A and C. It offers numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion, improving circulation, and supporting lactation. Chaya is also used in folk medicine for conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.
Important: Always cook the leaves by boiling them for 5-15 minutes to neutralize toxins and make them safe to eat.
This fast-growing perennial thrives in full sun to partial shade, making it perfect for food forests or backyard gardens. Easily propagated from 6-12 inch stem cuttings, Chaya can reach 6-8 feet tall and can be continuously harvested with proper care. It's a beautiful addition to any garden, attracting butterflies and hummingbirds with its white flowers, and is resilient to drought and various soil types.

Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster
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32 oz (1 qt, 946 ml)
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Grown in
6"/1 gal pot
6 plants in stock
$49.95

USDA zone
Zone 9-11.
Hardiness
Protect from freezing.
Growing conditions
Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone, Small backyard, Pot-growing, Indoors
More information
Recommended Fertilizer: SUNSHINE Robusta - Rapid Growth Booster
Learn more in Top Tropicals Blog
What plants are good to order in Winter? Bright, bold, and edible: Variegated Chaya Variegated Chaya - beauty meets nutrition

This item is certified for shipping to all states/territories, including California (with phytocertificate), Puerto Rico (with phytocertificate), US VI (with phytocertificate), Texas, Louisiana, Arizona.