Tree Spinach

I had to look twice at this attractive purple flower, for I did not recognise it. And well might I, for it is not the purple of flowers but of new growth. The leaves of chenopodium giganteum, also known as tree spinach, begin as purple but turn green with age. Purple was the colour of royalty in the ancient world, yet in this plant it denotes youth. Those of us who are advancing in years can see the majesty of youth, including its vigour, rude health and unblemished looks. Unfortunately, we can also see its impetuousness, ignorance and stupidity.

This plant grows nearly ten feet tall, but it is only an annual, surviving just the one year. Wherever we are along life’s chart, our years are short and our days are few. The Christian’s eternity will be characterised by healthy and youthful resurrection bodies coupled with wise and righteous minds and spirits. In that day, we shall enjoy the very best of everything, and fully enjoy the royal dignity for which we were made: union with Christ. In the meantime, most of us will be cut down like our friend the tree spinach.