Bowstring Hemp (Sanseviera aethiopica)

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

Sanseviera aethiopica is an evergreen Perennial growing to 0.6 m (2ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is frost tender. It is in leaf all year, in flower in July. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Fall, Spring, Winter

Flavor & Culinary Uses

The rhizome is a source of water. This is presumably of some use in the arid areas of its native range, but of rather limited benefit in Britain. — The rhizome is a source of water.; This is presumably of some use in the arid areas of its native range, but of rather limited benefit in Britain.

Habitat & North American Range

Not known. (Zone 9)