Supple Jack, Kareao
Ripogonum scandens
Family: Smilacaceae
What it is like
An evergreen climber. It climbs by coiling stems and branches around other plants. It can be several metres long. The leaves are usually opposite and dark green. They are narrowly oval and taper to the tip. The flowers are pale green or yellow.
There are 6 Ripogonum species. They are to be included in the Rhipogonaceae
Where it is found
It is a subtropical plant. It can grow in shady places and in moist locations.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia, New Zealand (country/location of origin), Papua New Guinea
How it is used for food
The ripe fruit are eaten. The very young shoots and leaves are eaten. They are best cooked. The seeds can be eaten. The sap can be eaten.
Edible parts
Fruit, leaves, root, sap