A climbing herb, freely branched with glossy, smooth leaves (8 - 12cm in length) and stems. There are two forms: the one with reddish petioles and stems is quite ornamental and regarded as typical. The other form has green foliage and stems is sometimes known as var. alba.
Origin
A herb of the Old World, wild in South and South-East Asia.
Uses
The young succulent leaves when boiled, have a distinctive taste. The nutritive value of the leaves and young shoot is very high in terms of minerals and vitamins. It is gently laxative and slightly medicinal.
