Wanydjarrpu
Austrodolichos errabundus
Family: Fabaceae
What it is like
A low vine or creeper. The stems are very slender. The leaves have 3 leaflets. Each leaflet is 3 cm long. They are often oval but can vary in shape. The flowers are mauve or pink and about 2.5 cm long. They are pea shaped. The fruit are pods that are flat and 8 cm long. They are covered with silky hairs. It has a tuber or yam from which it re-grows each year.
There is only one Austrodolichos species.
Where it is found
A tropical plant. It grows in open forest. It grows in the wet season and becomes dormant in the dry season. It is very hardy and drought resistant. It needs a well drained soil.
Countries/locations it is found in
Australia (country/location of origin)
How it is used for food
The fattened root or yam is roasted then cleaned and softened by crushing. The starch is chewed from amongst the fibres, which are not eaten.
Edible parts
Root
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed. Seed need treatment to help them to grow. Plants can be grown from stem cuttings.