Aneilema siliculosum

Family: Commelinaceae

What it is like

A herb. It grows 20-30 cm high. It is angular and with many branches. The leaves are 15-20 cm long by 0.8-1.2 cm wide. They are narrow and sword shaped. They are pointed. The flower panicle is 10-15 cm long on the ends of the stems. The flowers are white or pale red. They are 0.5 cm across. The fruit is a 2 celled capsule.

There are about 100 Aneilema species.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It does best in shade. It needs protection from hot sun and wind. It likes plenty of water. It is very frost tender. In tropical Queensland it grows between sea level and 880 m altitude. It grows well in rainforest.

Countries/locations it is found in

Australia (country/location of origin)

How it is used for food

The stems and roots are eaten, raw or roasted.

Edible parts

Roots, stems

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from stem cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Djnj

Synonyms

Commelina siliculosa (R. Br.) Poir.;