Petungan
Cyanotis cristata

Family: Commelinaceae

What it is like

An annual creeping herb. It is 15-30 cm long. The leaves are oblong and do not have a leaf stalk. They are 5-10 cm long by 1-1.5 cm wide. The flowers are blue and in clusters near the ends of branches. The fruit are 3 sided capsules. They usually have 6 seeds.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It grows by streams in ravines or open humid places from near sea level to 2000 m in southern China. It is best in a rich, well-drained soil. It needs a protected, shaded position. It is damaged by drought or frost.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Asia, Australia, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, Guam, Himalayas, India, Indochina, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia (country/location of origin), Myanmar, Nepal, Northeastern India, Pacific, Philippines, SE Asia, Sikkim, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam

How it is used for food

The young leaves and tips are steamed and eaten.

Edible parts

Leaves

How it is grown

It can be grown from cuttings.

It grows slowly.

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Commelina cristata Linnaeus; Cyanotis cavaleriei H. Léveillé & Vaniot; Cyanotis huegelii Hassk.; Cyanotis imbricata (Roxb.) Kunth; Cyanotis racemosa C. B. Clarke [Illegitimate]; Ephemerum cristatum (L.) Moench; Siphostigma cristata (L.) Raf.; Tonningia cristata (L.) Kuntze; Tradescantia cristata (Linn.) Jacq.; Tradescantia imbricata Roxb.; Zygomenes cristata (L.) W. Wight;