The soil types range from sandy loam to clay loams. The species has a C4 photosynthetic pathway, an adaptation mechanism that enables it to survive in drier and hot environments. The leaves exhibit strong rhythmic circadian movements, following the direction of the sun. The plants do not grow well in shade and are unable to compete with weeds. The species can grow in areas with short periods of useful rainfall but the plants are not drought resistant.
Water stress reduces leaf yield and quality.
The plants cannot withstand flooding. The plants can be attacked by pentatomids, locusts, nematodes, flea beetles, green vegetable bugs, cabbage sawfly, cotton jassids and hurricane bugs. The plant is also host to powdery mildew. The nutritional composition of the raw leaves can vary with soil fertility, environment, plant type, plant age and the production techniques used. It also contains some protein, and the leaves contain over and above the normal recommended adult daily allowance of vitamins A and C and the minerals calcium and iron.