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Ipomoea mombassana

Family: Convolvulaceae


What it is like

A trailing herb. The stems are weak and hairy. The leaves are oval and often heart shaped. They are usually slightly hairy. The flowers are white with a purple centre. They are funnel shaped.

It can be significant weed.


Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. It grows in grassland between sea level and 1,600 m altitude. It is often on sandy soils. It can grow in arid places.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, East Africa, Kenya, Tanzania


How it is used for food

The young leaves are cooked and eaten. If they are cooked with other leaves they are less slippery.

Edible parts

Leaves, vegetable


How it is grown


Its other names

Local names

Barfo, Bire, Enkoiniyeni, Kadedtho, Maturankunu, Musele, Ukwasi-wa-nthi, Uthui, Wimbia

Synonyms