Anredera scandens (PROSEA)

Plant Resources of South-East Asia Introduction

List of species

Anredera scandens (L.) Moq.

Protologue: DC., Prodr. 13(2): 230 (1849).

Vernacular names

• Philippines: malabato, olibato (Tagalog).

Distribution

Native to tropical America, introduced and naturalized in the Philippines.

Uses

In the Philippines, the tuberous roots are applied topically to hasten ripening of boils. They are used traditionally in Mexico for the treatment of broken bones and flesh wounds.

Observations

A perennial climber with large tuberous roots and short-lived shoots up to 5 m long; leaves ovate to ovate-oblong, 1.5-8.5 cm × 1-6 cm; flowers with lower bracteoles free, caducous, upper bracteoles boat-shaped, broadly winged on the back, perianth greenish-white, little opening in anthesis. A. scandens is planted as an ornamental and naturalized in the lowlands of the Philippines.

Selected sources

126, 247, 760.

Main genus page

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Authors

R.H.M.J. Lemmens