Inca peanut (Plukenetia volubilis)

Family: Euphorbiaceae | Edibility: Edible (3/5)

Plukenetia volubilis is an evergreen Climber growing to 2 m (6ft) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils and can grow in very acid soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

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

Flavor & Culinary Uses

Rich in oil (35 - 60%) and protein (27%). — Leaves - cooked and eaten as a vegetable.; An excellent flavour.; Rich in oil (35 - 60%) and protein (27%).; An oil is extracted from the seed.

Habitat & North American Range

Occurs in disturbed areas or forest edges of lowland moist or wet forest, at elevations below 900 metres. (Zone 10)