Polygonum microcephalum

Family: Polygonaceae

What it is like

A herb. It can have fine hairs. It grows 1 m tall. It has a woody rootstock and grows each year from this. The leaves are oval or sword shaped. They narrow to a winged leaf stalk. The flowers are in small heads.

There are about 50 Polygonum species.

Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant. In south China it grows between 500-3,200 m above sea level. In Sichuan and Yunnan.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Bhutan, China, Himalayas, India, Nepal, Northeastern India, Sikkim, Tibet

How it is used for food

The slightly sour leaves are added to curry to increase the taste. They are cooked and eaten.

Edible parts

Leaves, seeds

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Delap, Madhusuleng

Synonyms

Jehe shla, Madhu fulong, Madu suleng