Chaya, Mexican Tree Spinach (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius)

Nutritious and Hardy Mexican Tree Spinach

Common Names: Chaya, Mexican Tree Spinach, Mayan Spinach, Chaya Col, Tree Spinach
Family: Euphorbiaceae
Origin: Mexico and Central America

Chaya (Cnidoscolus aconitifolius), also known as Mexican Tree Spinach, is a fast-growing perennial shrub native to Mexico and Central America. This hardy plant is known for its highly nutritious leaves, which are commonly cooked and eaten like spinach. Chaya is a drought-tolerant, easy-to-grow plant that can thrive in a variety of climates, making it an excellent addition to home gardens. Its high nutritional value, especially in iron, calcium, and vitamins A and C, makes it a valuable leafy green in traditional diets. The plant's leaves must be cooked before consumption to neutralize the naturally occurring toxins, making it a safe and highly nutritious vegetable.

Distinctive Features, Uses, and Nutritional Value

Foliage: Chaya has large, dark green, palmate leaves that resemble those of cassava or castor beans. The leaves are packed with nutrients, including vitamins A, C, and B, calcium, iron, and protein. While the leaves contain a small amount of toxic compounds (cyanogenic glycosides), cooking/blanching them for 10-15 minutes renders them safe to eat.

Flowers: Chaya produces small, white flowers that attract pollinators like butterflies and bees.

Growth Habit: This shrub can grow up to 6-10 feet tall, with a bushy, tree-like growth habit, making it ideal for garden borders, food forests, or as a backdrop in ornamental gardens.

Culinary and Medicinal Uses

Chaya leaves are primarily used in cooking, where they are boiled and served as a green vegetable. The leaves are often added to soups, stews, or mixed with other vegetables. In traditional medicine, Chaya has been used to promote overall health, improve digestion, and treat conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. The plant is recognized for its high nutritional value, providing essential vitamins and minerals that contribute to a balanced diet.