Showy Combretum
Combretum grandiflorum
Family: Combretaceae
What it is like
An evergreen shrubby or woody climber. It can grow 6 m high. The leaves are oval and 10-15 cm long. They are glossy dark green. The leaf stalk and mid vein are purple. The flowers are red with yellow anthers. They are cup shaped. The fruit are dry, one seeded and winged.
Where it is found
It is a tropical plant. It grows on the edges of clearings. It needs an average, well-drained soil. It is often along rivers and in palm groves. It can be up to 800 m above sea level. It suits hardiness zones 10-12.
Countries/locations it is found in
Africa, Asia, Benin, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinée, Guinea-Bissau, Hawaii, Indonesia, Pacific, Puerto Rico, SE Asia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, USA, West Africa (country/location of origin), West Indies
How it is used for food
The nectar is sucked from the flower.
It is eaten especially by children.
Edible parts
Flower nectar
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seeds, cuttings or air-layering.
Its other names
Local names
Asante merekah, Bumidi, Cundjamburo, Djacumae, Djambacatum, Malila-d-agua, Pelae-djasumae, Vibrant asante vine