Talinum fruticosum
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| Talinum fruticosum L. |
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Talinum fruticosum is an herbaceous perennial plant widely grown in tropical regions as a leaf vegetable. Common names include waterleaf, cariru, Surinam purslane, Philippine spinach, Ceylon spinach, Florida spinach, potherb fameflower, Lagos bologi, and sweetheart.
The plant grows erect, 30 to 100 cm high. It bears small, white flowers and broad, fleshy leaves.
Typical of leaf vegetables, it is rich in vitamins (including vitamin A and vitamin C) and minerals (including iron and calcium). Also typical of leaf vegetables, it is high in oxalic acid, and consumption should be avoided or limited by those suffering from kidney disorders, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis.
The crop is grown in West Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and warmer parts of North America and South America. Along with Celosia species, it is one of the most import leaf vegetables of Nigeria. In Brazil it is grown along the banks of the Amazon River, and is consumed mainly in the states of Pará and Amazonas.
