| HABIT : A small, erect, annual herb with stem succulent, smooth, piped, reddish. |
| LEAVES : Alternate, the lower ones very long petioled, variously lobed with lobes of an acute triangular shape, smooth. |
| FLOWERS : Male flowers on long terminal, globose spikes and short axillary spikes, very numerous and sessile.Perianth 4-parted.Stamens 4, anthers 2 celled, very large, female flowers axillary, sessile, crowded.Perianth 2-tipped with a projecting horn in each side, growing into spines when the seed is ripe. Ovary 1-ceclled, styles 4, white, tapering. |
| FRUIT : Capsule armed with 2 opposite short horns and crowned with small remaining perianth. |
| FLOWERING AND FRUTING TIME : December – February |
| Spinach is very nutritious and full of vitamins (vitamin C, vitamin A and vitamin E), minerals (magnesium, manganese, iron, and calcium), folic acid and protein. |
| Spinach is good for the digestive and urinary system. |
| Spinach helps to improve haemoglobin level. |
| Spinach has digestive and diuretic properties. It improves appetite and assimilation of nutrients, stimulates digestion, and cures constipation. |
| Spinach lowers cholesterol level in the body and gives protection from heart diseases. Spinach improves body immunity to fight infections. |
| Spinach is mild laxative and helps to clear bowel. This gives relief in constipation and piles. |
| Spinach prevents bone loss in osteoporosis. It has anti-inflammatory properties and gives relief in pain of arthritis. |
