Eriosema cordifolium

Family: Fabaceae

What it is like

A slender herb. It keeps growing from year to year. It grows 20-30 cm long. It has a root-stock that is turnip shaped. It is 1.5 cm across and 2-3 cm long.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It grows in grassy savannah in upland situations in West Africa. In Central Africa it grows between 1,500-1,800 m above sea level.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Angola, Central Africa, Central African Republic, CAR, Congo DR, East Africa, Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sudan, Uganda, West Africa

How it is used for food

The tuberous root stock is peeled and eaten raw or cooked.

It is eaten especially by children.

Edible parts

Tuber, root

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Kokota, Maeswo, Shilingo, Silinga, Yemirid-kolo

Synonyms

Eriosema cordifolium var. longibracteatum Hauman;