Aneilema siliculosum

R. Br.

Commelinaceae Edible: Roots, Stems 13 iNaturalist observations

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Description

A herb. It grows 20-30 cm high. It is angular and with many branches. The leaves are 15-20 cm long by 0.8-1.2 cm wide. They are narrow and sword shaped. They are pointed. The flower panicle is 10-15 cm long on the ends of the stems. The flowers are white or pale red. They are 0.5 cm across. The fruit is a 2 celled capsule.

Edible Uses

The stems and roots are eaten raw or roasted.

Traditional Uses

The stems and roots are eaten, raw or roasted.

This uses section is brief — help expand it

Distribution

A tropical plant. It does best in shade. It needs protection from hot sun and wind. It likes plenty of water. It is very frost tender. In tropical Queensland it grows between sea level and 880 m altitude. It grows well in rainforest.

Where It Grows

Australia*,

Cultivation

Plants can be grown from stem cuttings.

Notes

There are about 100 Aneilema species.

Synonyms

Commelina siliculosa (R. Br.) Poir.

Also Known As

Djnj

References (5)

Cooper, W. and Cooper, W., 2004, Fruits of the Australian Tropical Rainforest. Nokomis Editions, Victoria, Australia. p 130
Cribb, A.B. & J.W., 1976, Wild Food in Australia, Fontana. p 159
Elliot, W.R., & Jones, D.L., 1982, Encyclopedia of Australian Plants suitable for cultivation. Vol 2. Lothian. p 194
Jones D, L, 1986, Ornamental Rainforest Plants in Australia, Reed Books, p 260
Lim, T. K., 2015, Edible Medicinal and Non Medicinal Plants. Volume 9, Modified Stems, Roots, Bulbs. Springer p 9