Honstoria
Oldenlandia auricularia

Family: Rubiaceae

What it is like

A creeping herb which keeps growing from year to year. It is 20-50 cm high and spreads 60-150 cm across. The stem is low and it has spreading branches. The stems are 4-angled. The leaves are 4-12 cm long by 1-1.4 cm wide. The leaves are narrow and tapering and are yellowish-green. The flowers are small and white. They are 0.3 cm across. The fruit is a capsule.

There are about 250-450 Hedyotis species.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. They suit tropical and subtropical regions. It does best in light well drained soil. It needs a protected partially shaded position. It is damaged by drought and frost.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Australia, Himalayas, India, Malaysia, Maldives, Myanmar, Northeastern India, Pacific, Papua New Guinea, SE Asia, Sri Lanka

How it is used for food

The boiled leaves are eaten with rice.

Edible parts

Leaves

How it is grown

Plants are grown from cuttings or division of the rootstock. They can also be grown from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Dapoli, Kerekah batu, Kudal-churiki, Langban-koukha, Muttia-lata

Synonyms

Hedyotis auricularia L.; and others