Cynanchum abyssinicum

Family: Apocynaceae

What it is like

A plant that climbs. It is twining. It is 3-4 m tall. The leaves are narrowly oval and 3-7 cm long by 1-2 cm wide. They are slightly hairy above. The flowers are in clusters. The fruit are follicles 6-7 cm long by 1 cm wide. They taper to the tip. The seeds are brown.

Also put in the family Asclepiadaceae.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It grows on the edges of forests and in savanna. It grows between 1,600-2,600 m above sea level.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Congo DR, East Africa, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda

How it is used for food

The leaves are used to make a relish. They are also used for tea.

Edible parts

Leaves - flavouring

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Vincetoxicum holstii K. Schum.;