Cnidoscolus aconitifolius

Chaya / Tree Spinach

Cnidoscolus aconitifolius

Regions: Mexico to Panama

Chaya, or Tree Spinach, is a shrub or small tree characterized by its unique, deeply dissected leaves. Considered to be one of the most nutritious greens of all plants in Central and South America, its use dates to the Maya people, who used it both for food and medicine. The current common name Chaya originates from the Yucatec Maya word for the plant - Chay.