Sicklethorn, Large forest asparagus
Asparagus falcatus

Family: Asparagaceae

What it is like

A climber. The roots have tubers. The stem can climb 7 m. The branches have grooves. It has sharp spines. The leaves are small and bright green. They are sickle shaped and 5 cm long. The flowers are small and have a sweet smell. They are white. The fruit are small orange berries.

There are between 160-300 Asparagus species.

Where it is found

It is a tropical plant. In Swaziland it grows only in the lowveld. It needs rich, moist, well-drained soil. It grows in dense scrub and along the edges of forests.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Australia, East Africa, Eswatini, Kenya, Mozambique, Rwanda, South Africa, Southern Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, Zimbabwe

How it is used for food

Edible parts

Shoots, roots

How it is grown

Plants can be grown by seeds or cuttings.

Its other names

Local names

Akako-bamakanga, Mowungwi, Munmulungo, Umushabishabi

Synonyms

Protoasparagus falcatus (L.) Oberm.;