Molokhia
Corchorus olitorius
Also known asEgyptian spinach · Jute mallow · Jew's mallow · Mulukhiyah · Melokhia · Saluyot · Nalta jute · Tossa jute
Environment
The bounded range this crop tolerates.
Climate and zones
- USDA zones
- 9–13 (winter low around -7°C)
- Frost
- frost sensitive (dies at first frost)
- Season
- warm (summer, frost-sensitive)
Growing systems
Root mass: heavy. Thin-channel systems can't hold this crop.
Growing media
| Medium | pH effect | Retention | Bacterial surface |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expanded clay pebbles (LECA) | neutral / inert | low | high |
| Coco coir (Coconut coir) | slightly acidic | high | moderate |
| Soil-based mix (Potting soil) | varies | high | high |
| Lava rock (Scoria) | neutral / inert | low | very high |
Nutrient demand by stage
NPK ratios are relative weights. EC targets shift through the plant's life.
| Stage | N | P | K | EC (mS/cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| seedling | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0.8 |
| vegetative | 3 | 1 | 2 | 1.8 |
Aquaponics suitability
Compatible
Fish waste provides enough nitrogen for healthy growth. Supplemental potassium, calcium, and iron may still be needed depending on fish stocking density.
Care notes
A warm-weather leafy green for hydroponic and aquaponic systems serving Middle Eastern communities. EC 1.4-2.2 mS/cm. pH 6.0-7.5. Temperature: 18–32°C (tropical; frost-sensitive, growth stalls below 18°C and runs best in real heat). High light (DLI 18-26 mol/m2/day). The plants grow tall (1–2 m) and may need staking. From seed to first leaf harvest: 6-8 weeks. Harvest by cutting the top 20–30 cm of growing tips, which promotes branching and continuous production. Traditional preparation: strip leaves from stems, chop very finely (a mezzaluna helps), then cook in chicken broth with garlic and ground coriander until thick and mucilaginous. Served over rice with chicken. Leaves can be dried (dehydrate at 40–50°C) and stored for year-round use, then reconstituted in broth. Fresh molokhia turns up at Middle Eastern grocers seasonally while the dried product is sold year-round; the fresh leaf has a brighter, more vibrant flavour than dried.