Mountain maize
Ombrophytum zamioides
Family: Balanophoraceae
What it is like
These are root parasites. It is 35 cm long. It has a tuber.
There are 4 Ombrophytum species in the neotropics. The flowers of several Ombrophytum are eaten.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. They grow from wet lowland forests to dry mountain forests.
Countries/locations it is found in
Bolivia, Ecuador, Peru, South America
How it is used for food
The plant is boiled and eaten.
Edible parts
Root
How it is grown
The plants grow suddenly after rain.
Its other names
Local names
Synonyms
Probably now Ombrophytum microlepis