Wild nongmangkha
Phlogacanthus curviflorus

Family: Acanthaceae

What it is like

A shrub. It grows 3-6 m tall. The leaves are oblong and 12-35 cm long by 9-18 cm wide. They are hairy along the veins underneath. The flowers are at the top of the plant. They are in groups 14-18 cm long by 6-8 cm wide. The flowers are pink or red.

Where it is found

It is a tropical and subtropical plant. It grows in ravines and on the edge of forests between 400-1,600 m above sea level. In Yunnan.

Countries/locations it is found in

Asia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Himalayas, India, Indochina, Laos, Myanmar, Northeastern India, SE Asia, Thailand, Tibet, Vietnam

How it is used for food

The young flowers are eaten as a vegetable. They are boiled with rice. They are also dried. They are also pounded and used as a spice or condiment.

It is sold in local markets.

Edible parts

Flowers

How it is grown

Its other names

Local names

Aluso, Dhapa tita, Geurim-heu, Heyavu, Kham-chhit, Ko-na oing, Kola bahak, Kolhou, Lamgi, Maidang, Mogang sudi, Nongmangkha, Pilamola, Tew-phot-saw, Totsiipa

Synonyms

Justicia curviflorus Wall.;