Trumpet-flower
Ipomoea adenioides

Family: Convolvulaceae

What it is like

A shrub. It loses its leaves during the year. It grows 1.5 m high. The bark is grey. The young branches have a soft silvery covering. The leaves are simple and arranged in spirals. They are broadly oval and 3-8 cm long by 1-5 cm wide. They are folded along the midrib and are slightly leathery. They are bright green above and dull with white hairs underneath. The flowers occur singly in the axils of leaves. They are white with a tube 7-10 cm long and 5 cm wide. The fruit is a dry capsule.

Where it is found

It is a tropical and subtropical plant. It grows in hot arid places. It grows in places with a marked dry season. It needs well drained soils. It can grow in rocky and sandy soils as well as clays and loams. It grows between 400-1,100 m above sea level. It can grow in arid places.

Countries/locations it is found in

Africa, Angola, Botswana, Central Africa, East Africa, Ethiopia, Namibia, Somalia, South Africa, Southern Africa, Zimbabwe

How it is used for food

The root is eaten raw. It also contains useful water.

Edible parts

Root, tubers

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Okanakamudesha, Seroa

Synonyms

Ipomoea marlothii Engl.;