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Cynomorium coccineum subsp. songaricum

Family: Cynomoriaceae

What it is like

A root parasite. It grows on Nitraria, Reaumaria, Salsola and Tamarix shrubs. It has an underground stem 15-50 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The aerial portion is 15-40 cm high and 3-6 cm wide. The leaves are like scales. They are 1-2 cm long and wide. They are arranged in spirals. The flowers are small and dark purple. Male and female flowers are separate.

There are 2 Cynomorium species. This one is used in Chinese medicine. It is a powerful antioxidant.

Where it is found

It is a temperate plant. It grows near lakes and streams. In China it grows between 500-700 m altitude in northern provinces. It grows on desert shrubs. It grows in desert areas in Inner Mongolia. It can grow in arid places.

Countries/locations it is found in

Afghanistan, Asia, Central Asia, China, Iran, Middle East, Mongolia, Tajikistan

How it is used for food

Starch extracted from the stems is used in pastries.

Edible parts

Root, stems

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Cynomorium songaricum Ruprecht;