Cynanchum virens
Family: Apocynaceae
What it is like
A tall slender climber. The stems are twining. The leaves have long stalks. The leaves are simple, opposite and heart shaped. They can have a few hairs. There are 3-15 flowers in a group in the axils of leaves. The flowers are small and 5 mm long. They are white. The fruit is a long smooth follicle that tapers into a beak.
There are about 150 Cynanchum species.
Where it is found
A subtropical plant.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Lesotho, South Africa, Southern Africa
How it is used for food
CAUTION: The roots are cooked and eaten. The leaves are cooked as a vegetable.
The roots are a famine food.
Edible parts
Leaves, roots
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Mololo