Abelmoschus caillei occurs as an erect and stout herb that is often woody at the base. Its flowers are axillary, with their petals yellow to pink.[1] The plant is typically 60-65 inches tall (though it may reach 85 inches).[5] The stems may be green, red, or green with some red pigmentation.[4] The seeds are typically ovoid to oblong in shape, about 3-5 inches long, and may have a rough surface.[4][5] The leaves are green and lobed, while petioles are typically purple.[5]
Uses
Abelmoschus caillei is consumed as a vegetable in a variety of ways, with young leaves being consumed as spinach and young fruits being consumed after being cooked or fried. Its edibility combined with its resistance to Bhendi yellow vein mosaic virus allows the plant to be commonly cultivated in subsistence farming in high rainfall areas of West Africa.[6] Its leaves can also be used as cattle feed.[1]
Intensive contact with the fruit and plant may cause skin irritation.[7]
In Nigeria, the plant is used medicinally for sore throats and child bearing, as well as to make certain household items like rope and sponges.[8]
References
^ abcdUmberto Quattrocchi (2016). CRC World Dictionary of Medicinal and Poisonous Plants: Common Names, Scientific Names, Eponyms, Synonyms, and Etymology (reprint ed.). CRC Press. p. 1. ISBN9781482250640.
^G. J. H. Grubben, ed. (2004). Vegetables. Plant resources of tropical Africa. Vol. 2. PROTA. p. 26. ISBN9789057821479.
^Grubben, G.J.H. & Denton, O.A. (2004) Plant Resources of Tropical Africa 2. Vegetables. PROTA Foundation, Wageningen; Backhuys, Leiden; CTA, Wageningen.
