Mariscus alternifolius
Vahl
Cyperaceae Edible: Tuber, Culm base, Rhizome, Root
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A sedge. These grow in clumps and have grass like leaves and solid stalks. The culms are swollen at the base. There are underground stems or rhizomes.
Edible Uses
The rhizomes are eaten and used for flavouring. The swollen culm base is also consumed, along with the tubers and roots.
Traditional Uses
The rhizomes are used for flavouring. The swollen culm base is swollen.
This uses section is brief — help expand it
Distribution
A tropical plant. It grows in damp grassy places in West Africa.
Where It Grows
Africa, Burkina Faso, Gambia, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, West Africa,
Synonyms
Mariscus umbellatus Vahl
Also Known As
Ataku mainya, Samikoko, Tiokom tiokom
References (5)
- Burkill, H. M., 1985, The useful plants of west tropical Africa, Vol. 1. Kew.
- Enum. pl. 2:376. 1805
- Gallagher, D. E., 2010, Farming beyond the escarpment: Society, Environment, and Mobility in Precolonial Southeastern Burkina Faso. PhD University of Michigan.
- Grivetti, L. E., 1980, Agricultural development: present and potential role of edible wild plants. Part 2: Sub-Saharan Africa, Report to the Department of State Agency for International Development. p 24 (As Mariscus umbellatus)
- Jardin, C., 1970, List of Foods Used In Africa, FAO Nutrition Information Document Series No 2.p 89 (As Mariscus umbellatus)
