Tree Spinach (male)

Description:

Photo take at my backyard this Tree Spinach plant is bloom constant all year long white small flower about 4mm diameter each . Small bush maybe 1.5 mt tall at most has a some varieties have stinging hairs and require gloves for harvesting.thia particular one is a male it has long spins in all the surface of the plant .Natives has very much respect for this plant it you get sting the each lass for days and is possible to get fever.is know as "chaya".

Habitat:

Found from northern México to Guatemala in tropical areas. In México is know as Chaya.

Notes:

Chaya is a good source of protein, vitamins, calcium, and iron; and is also a rich source of antioxidants.However, raw chaya leaves are toxic as they contain a glucoside that can release toxic cyanide. Cooking is essential prior to consumption to inactivate the toxic components; in this chaya is similar to cassava, which also contains toxic hydrocyanic glycosides and must be cooked before being eaten. Wikipedia.