Porcupine root, Kalahari butterweed
Talinum arnottii

Family: Talinaceae

What it is like

A herb or small shrub. It can be an annual plant or grow for a few years. It grows 40 cm high. The roots are thick and succulent. They can be 38 cm long.

There are about 50 Talinum species. They grow in warm places. Also put in the family Portulacaceae.

Where it is found

A tropical plant. It can grow in sandy and clay soils. It grows in areas with an annual rainfall between 50-700 mm. It can grow in arid places.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Botswana, East Africa, Eswatini, Namibia, South Africa, Southern Africa, South America, Swaziland, Zambia, Zimbabwe

How it is used for food

The leaves and stem are used as a green vegetable and in savoury preparations. They are pounded into a mash. They are also used as a salad.

Edible parts

Leaves, stems, vegetable

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Kgalahete, Mphunyuka, Muloho, Umpunyu

Synonyms

Talinum caffrum Dinter; Talinum cuneifolium Poell. & Podlech;