Mariscus alternifolius

Family: Cyperaceae

What it is like

A sedge. These grow in clumps and have grass like leaves and solid stalks. The culms are swollen at the base. There are underground stems or rhizomes.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows in damp grassy places in West Africa.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, West Africa

How it is used for food

The rhizomes are used for flavouring. The swollen culm base is swollen.

Edible parts

Tuber, culm base, rhizome, root

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Ataku mainya, Samikoko, Tiokom tiokom

Synonyms

Mariscus umbellatus Vahl;