Nongmangkha
Phlogacanthus thyrsiflorus

Family: Acanthaceae

What it is like

A shrub. It grows to 2 m high. The branches are 4 angled. The leaves have stalks. The leaves are 15-20 cm long. They are unequal and sword shaped. They droop. The flowers are orange or red. They occur in compact, compound flower arrangements at the end of branches.

There are about 30 Phlogacanthus species.

Where it is found

A subtropical plant. In Nepal it grows between 200-1700 m altitude.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Bhutan, Himalayas, India, Indochina, Myanmar, Nepal, Northeastern India, SE Asia, Sikkim

How it is used for food

The flowers are cooked and used as a vegetable. They have a bitter taste. They can be stored for 7 days. The leaves are also cooked, usually with dried fish. The flowers are boiled or baked and used in chutney.

Edible parts

Flowers, leaves

How it is grown

Plants are grown from seed.

Its other names

Local names

Alot gitchak, Banheka, Baskambomphang, Chua, Chutap, Chuwa, Dieng-soh-ja-buid, Dieng-soh-kajut, Ellot, Jaogan, Jaogon, Jok-an, Kaldona, Kawadoni, Jok-an, Nongmang-kha, Phikhip, Pilamola, Ram bahak, Rambasak, Rambha arong, Rheeom, Ronga bahak, Titabahak, Titaphul, Verua-kainchait

Synonyms

Justicia thyrsiformis Roxb. ex Hardw.; Justicia thyrsiflorus Roxb.; Phlogacanthus thyrsiflorus (Roxb.) Nees;