This species is closely related to Urera oblongifolia Benth., or possibly conspecific with it[].

Common Name:

General Information

Urera obovata is a strongly stinging shrub that can be just 1.2 - 1.8 metres tall when growing in more open areas on the ground, but more commonly becomes a climbing plant or epiphyte, growing up the trunks of trees and attaching itelf by means of adventitious roots with prickle-like protuberances. It such conditions it can climb into the forest canopy, producing stems up to 30 metres long[, ].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food, medicine and source of fibre.

Known Hazards

The plant bears irritant hairs, those on the leaves having a particularly strong sting. Sap from the leaves, flowers and fruit will raise a rash on even the toughest skin[].

Botanical References

Range

West tropical Africa - Sierra Leone to Benin.

Habitat

Moist lowland rainforest and the more open areas of secondary growth, often in swampy areas with Pteris togoensis, Enneastemon barteri, Nervilia sp.; at elevations from 475 - 900 metres[, ].

Properties

Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Other Uses Rating
Habit	Climber
Height	20.00 m
Self-fertile	No
Cultivation Status	Wild

Cultivation Details

A dioecious species, both male and female forms need to be grown if fruit and seed are required[].

Edible Uses

Leaves - cooked and eaten as a spinach or added to soups[, ].

Fruit - said to be edible[].

Medicinal

The plant has several medicinal uses[].

A leaf decoction is used to treat dysentery and as an aphrodisiac[].

Other Uses

A fibre is obtained from the bark[].

Propagation

Seed -

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