African Spider Flower

Description

African Spider Flower (Cleome gynandra) belongs to the Cleomaceae family and is native to Africa. It thrives in Farmland, road edges, disturbed ground environments across regions including Africa. Botanically, African Spider Flower is fast-growing African leafy vegetable with a distinctive pungent flavor. Important indigenous green.. The edible parts include Leaves, Young shoots, Seeds. With an edibility rating of 7/10, it ranks as a good wild food source. Harvesting is best done during April, December, February, January, June, March, May, November and October. Nutritionally, African Spider Flower stands out for its Vitamin K (30.0mg, 25% DV), Vitamin C (20.0mg, 22% DV) and Iron (2.0mg, 11% DV). It also provides 2.0g protein and 3.0g dietary fiber per 100g serving. In the kitchen, African Spider Flower offers a Pungent, mustard-like, slightly bitter flavor profile. Strip leaves from stems; wash; parboil; drain and sauté. Common culinary applications include Cooked greens, Spiced stews, Seed condiment. Popular preparations include Parboil leaves; sauté with onion, tomato, groundnut paste. For storage, refrigerate fresh parts. Safety note: Strong flavor; parboil to reduce bitterness. Antinutrient content is minimal. Be aware that Verify identification before consumption. Safe lookalike species include Similar edible species. Always verify identification with at least three independent botanical sources before consumption.

Edibility

Harvest Calendar

Nutrition (per 100g)

Culinary Uses: Cooked greens, Spiced stews, Seed condiment Storage: Refrigerate fresh parts

Recipes

• Parboil leaves; sauté with onion, tomato, groundnut paste

Where It Grows