Landolphia bruneelii

(De Wild.) Pichon

Apocynaceae Edible: Fruit, Leaves

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Meise Botanic Garden

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Description

A creeping or climbing shrub in the dogbane family found in tropical regions.

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Edible Uses

Members of this genus exude latex when the bark is damaged. The vines have traditionally been used to supply rubber but that function has increasingly been taken over by the rubber tree, Hevea brasiliensis which can be conveniently grown in plantations. The latex from these vines is still used to a limited extent for rubber production. Many species have large edible fruits which are sweet and juicy and rich in beta-carotene. However, commercialisation of the crop is difficult because of the nature of the vines, their need for suitable supports and the lack of knowledge of suitable cultivation techniques.

Distribution

It is a tropical plant.

Where It Grows

Africa, Central Africa, Congo DR,

Synonyms

Carpodinus bruneelii De Wild.

Also Known As

Botohe, Lomata lo'otohe

References (1)

Terashima, H., Ichikawa, M. & Ohta, L., (Ed.), 1991, A Flora: Catalog of Useful Plants of Tropical Africa. African study monographs. Supplementary issue (1991), 16:195