Akamongot (Leptadenia hastata)

Family: Apocynaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (4/5)

Found in tropical Africa particularly in Senegal to Ethiopia, Uganda, and Kenya, Leptadenia hastata is a climbing shrub producing many soft stems that become woody at the base. It thrives well under harsh and dry, and poor soil conditions. Established plants are tolerant to drought. The leaves are alternate and taper towards the tip. The stems are light green and young shoots curve upwards. The flowers are greenish-yellow.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves, Shoots, Flowers

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

taste was considered good, and its tolerance of drought, insects and poor soil conditions as very good. — Young leaves and young shoots - cooked and added to soups.; The young shoot-tips are sometimes eaten raw.; The chopped and boiled leaves are mixed with beans, pigeon peas or cowpeas.; The leaves of plants grown at Dakar have been analysed as containing: carbohydrates 46%, protein 18%, ash 14%, oil 6% by weight.

Habitat & North American Range

Dry savannah in semi-arid areas. (Zone 10)