Lantern flower, Desert Lantern, Desert Chinese Lantern
Abutilon otocarpum
Family: Malvaceae
What it is like
A shrub or small tree. It grows 5 m tall. There are prickles along the stem. The leaves are twice divided and there are 8-18 pairs of pinnae. There are up to 50 pairs of pinnules on each pinnae. The flowers are yellow. They are in large clusters at the ends of branches. The pods are flattened.
There are about 100-160 Abutilon species.
Where it is found
It grows in tropical and subtropical places. It grows in desert areas often near stream banks and flood plains. It suits a hot dry climate. It needs good drainage and does not do well in humid places. It can grow in slight shade. It can grow in arid places.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The seeds are eaten. They have a nutty flavour and can be eaten without preparation.
Edible parts
Seeds
How it is grown
It is grown from seed. Fire helps the germination and growth of this plant.