Spinach (scientific name: Spinacia oleracea), also known as basella, parrot vegetable, red-root vegetable, and flying dragon vegetable, is an annual or biennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Amaranthaceae family. It thrives in cool climates, is highly cold-resistant, and grows well in sandy or clay soils, with both the roots and leaves being edible. Spinach was introduced to China from Nepal around the 7th century and has since become a common home-cooked dish. It was brought to England around the 14th century. Spinach is often used in soups, salads, stir-fried dishes, and can be combined with meat dishes or served as a base for hot pot.