Common Name:

General Information

Fockea angustifolia is a climbing, perennial, succulent plant producing several stems up to 1.5 metres long from a tuberous rootstock. The stems can be erect or climbing, supporting themselves by twining around other plants[].
The plant is harvested from the wild for its large, edible root, which is eaten locally. It is a sought after and much appreciated food in many areas of its range[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

,

Range

Southern Africa - Namibia, Botswana, S. Africa.

Habitat

In the shade of dense bushes and small trees[].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Habit	Perennial Climber
Height	1.50 m
Self-fertile	No
Cultivation Status	Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

A plant of drier areas in the tropics and subtropics. Plants cannot tolerate frosts[].
Succeeds in full sun or light shade in a well-drained soil[]. Requires ample moisture in the growing season[].
The plant tends to grow faster if the swollen base of the stem (the caudex) is buried just under the soil surface[].
A dioecious species, both male and female forms need to be grown if fruit and seed are required.

Edible Uses

Root - raw when young, or cooked when older[]. A whitish, watery flesh with a nutty flavour[]. A refreshingly juicy, crisp flesh[]. The white flesh is soft, spongy, sweet and watery, somewhat like a water-melon, and a fortunate resource for a thirsty traveller[]. The roots can be used for making jams and preserves[]. The turnip-shaped root can be 30cm or more long[, ].

Medicinal

None known

Other Uses

None known

Propagation

Seed -
Cuttings

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