Natsiatum herpeticum

Family: Icacinaceae

What it is like

A herb and climber. It has tuberous roots. The shoots have sharp, stiff hairs. The leaves have stalks. The leaves are 7.5-15 cm long by 5-12.5 cm wide. They are broadly oval. They have teeth around the edge and are rough in texture. They have white hairs. The flowers are greenish yellow. The fruit is fleshy with a hard covering over the seed.

There is only one Natsiatum species.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. In Nepal it grows between 250-1400 m altitude. It grows trailing on hedges in sunny places. In southern China it grows in evergreen broad-leaved forests on limestone mountains at about 2,400 m above sea level. In Yunnan.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Himalayas, India, Indochina, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Northeastern India, SE Asia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam

How it is used for food

The tender leaves are shoots are cooked as a vegetable. They are eaten as a potherb. They are also cooked with fish.

It is considered a delicacy.

Edible parts

Leaves

How it is grown

Plants are grown from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Kali lahara, Oupat, Sungoo-rik, Target-ruibe

Synonyms

Sicyos pentandra Wall.;