Hiccough nut, Hiccup nut
Combretum bracteosum

Family: Combretaceae

What it is like

It is a sturdy shrub, a rambler or a small tree up to 8 m tall. The leaves are simple and opposite. They are dull green above and lighter below. They are 3.5-10 cm long and oval. They have a point at the end. The flowers are bright red. They are in short dense clusters in the axils of leaves and at the ends of branches. They are small with leaf like bracts. The fruit is round or egg shaped. It is often slightly five angled. It is smooth and with one seed.

There are about 255 Combretum species. The fruit are a local hiccup remedy.

Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant. It grows near the sea and often on dunes. It is best in a fertile, well-drained soil. It suits hardiness zones 9-11. In Brisbane Botanical Gardens.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Australia, Eswatini, South Africa, Southern Africa, Swaziland

How it is used for food

The fruit can be eaten but may produce hiccoughs. (Others claim they are a cure for hiccoughs.) The nuts can be cooked and eaten.

Edible parts

Fruit, nuts

How it is grown

Plants can be grown from seeds or cuttings. Pieces of the stem lower on the plant often have roots and can be removed and planted.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Codonocroton triphyllum E. Mey. ex Engl. & Diels; Poivrea bracteosa Hochst.;