Stipagrostis damarensis

Family: Poaceae

What it is like

A herb. It is an erect grass that forms loose tufts. It has rhizomes or underground stems and keeps growing from year to year. It grows up to 1.2 m high.

Where it is found

It is a subtropical plant. It grows in hot arid areas. It grows in areas with an annual rainfall less than 250 mm. It grows between 400-1,200 m above sea level. It can grow in deep sandy and stony soils and deserts. It can grow in arid places.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Namibia, South Africa, Southern Africa

How it is used for food

The seeds are eaten in porridge.

Edible parts

Seeds, cereal

How it is grown

The seeds are collected from ant heaps where they are collected by harvester ants.

Its other names

Local names

Turumangombe

Synonyms

Aristida damaraensis Mez;