Goolaburra, Wild Potato, Weir vine
Ipomoea calobra
Family: Convolvulaceae
What it is like
A climbing plant which has woody twining stems. It climbs vigorously. It can be 6 m long. There is a large fleshy underground rootstock. The leaves are 5-12 cm long by 3-6 cm wide. They are narrow and heart shaped. The leaves have prominent lobes at the base. The leaves are dark green above and paler underneath with prominent veins. Many flowers occur together. The flowers are trumpet shaped and pink with a darker throat. They are 8 cm across. The seed capsules are 2 cm across and are round leathery. The seeds are angular and smooth.
There are about 500 Ipomoea species.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It needs well drained soil. It suits subtropical regions with seasonally dry climates. It suits sunny positions. It can tolerate light frosts.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The tuber is eaten. It is usually baked.
Edible parts
Tuber, root
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed or cuttings. The seeds are best rubbed with sand paper to break the hard seed coat.