Helicia javanica
Family: Proteaceae
What it is like
A shrub or small tree. It can grow 3-10 m tall. The trunk is crooked and 10-15 cm across. The leaves are alternate or in rings of 3-4. The leaf stalks are short and thick. The leaf blades are broadly oval and the base is rounded or heart shaped. There are teeth along the edge. The leaves are bluish green or yellowish green and dull. They are 10-35 cm long by 5-17 cm wide. The flowers are at the top or in the axils of leaves. There are many flowers in a group 7-35 cm long. The flowers are 2-3 cm long and have both sexes. The fruit are an oval shape and oblique. There are grooves on the outside. They are yellowish-green and shiny.
Where it is found
It is a tropical plant. It grows in lower mountain regions between 200-1,200 m above sea level. It is often along rivers and in valleys, in the forest.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Bangladesh, India, Indochina, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, SE Asia, Thailand
How it is used for food
The bluish leaf shoots are cooked and eaten.
Leaves are sold in local markets.
Edible parts
Leaves
How it is grown
Its other names
Local names
Kayu maributan, Kendung, Medang keladi, Sawa luka, Watutu