An annual heat-loving climbing plant, grown in flower beds and containers. It grows well at temperatures above +5C. Used as a vegetable, ornamental or medicinal plant. Undemanding to soil, tolerates periodic droughts or excess water. Regularly picked leaves are eaten raw, added to salads, soups, on sandwiches. can be prepared like spinach, and young shoots like asparagus. Raw, it has a citrus-peppery flavor, especially popular in Asian cuisines. It is a source of many vitamins and minerals, has antibacterial, antifungal and anticancer properties, neutralizes toxins in the body. Seeds are sown 6-8 weeks before planting, as germination takes up to several weeks. Before sowing, the seeds are soaked for several to 24 hours.