Derris (Paraderris elliptica)

Family: Fabaceae | Edibility: Edible (1/5)

Derris, Paraderris elliptica, is an evergreen climbing shrub with woody stems that grow up to 16m long and commonly found in East Asia. There is no known edible uses of Derris but it has several medicinal uses. It is used traditionally to eliminate microorganisms that cause diseases. It is applied to abscesses and used in the treatment of leprosy. It is sometimes used to cause abortion and increase menstrual flow in women.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

None known. — Harvested fresh in season according to PFAF botanical monograph.

Habitat & North American Range

Forest edges, roadsides and along rivers, usually at low elevations but up to 1,500 metres in Java. It can occur as a weed in forest plantations of Acacia, Eucalyptus and Swietenia. (Zone 10)