Sikkim knotweed
Koenigia mollis

Family: Polygonaceae

What it is like

A herb or small shrub. It is erect and grows 2-3 m tall. It is branched and softly hairy. The leaves are 7-18 cm long by 3-6 cm wide. They are narrowly oval and velvety. The flowers are in large branched groups at the ends of branches. The flowers are 3 mm across and creamy white. The nuts are 3 sided and shiny. They are 2-3 mm long.

There are about 50 Polygonum species.

Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant. In Sikkim it grows between 2,500-3,500 m above sea level. It grows in damp places along rivers and streams.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Bhutan, China, Himalayas, India, Indochina, Indonesia, Myanmar, Nepal, Northeastern India, SE Asia, Sikkim, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam

How it is used for food

The tender stem is eaten raw. It is acid and eaten like rhubarb. It is used in the preparation of jellies. The fruit are sweet and eaten. The young shoots and leaves are boiled with dry meat and eaten. They are also used in curry and pickles.

It is sold in local markets.

Edible parts

Leaves, seeds, fruit, stems

How it is grown

In northeastern India plants flower in July to September.

Its other names

Local names

Anbongalen, Bhamcha, Bonkung, Chawa-nle, Chomcha, Evau, Kandyeo-pam, Kochomah, Longjo, Ngyalo, Nyalowa, Patusua, Phamjo, Phamjya, Syakum, Tarodi, Tharam, Thothne, Thotne, Thotney,Tuknu, Vah-vu, Yocham

Synonyms

Aconogonum molle (D. Don) H. Hara; Persicaria mollis (D. Don) H. Gross; Polygonum paniculatum Bl.; Polygonum rude Meissn.; Polygonum frondosum Meissn.;