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Tropical Bushes With Edible Leaves

Even for those familiar with the tropics, surviving a tropical region for extended periods without the help of a guide or proper supplies is a significant challenge. Simply finding edible food and water poses enough of a risk that one bad move could lead to death. Thankfully for the novice tropic adventurer, years of trial and error and accumulated scientific knowledge make survival possible.

  1. Colubrina Asiatica

    • The shrub Colubrina asiatica, referred to as the Asia snakewood or latherleaf, is found in a variety of habitats, most commonly in tropical, coastal areas. It's a low-lying plant that produces a lather when exposed to water. The shrub has extended branches which attach slender stalks. On the stalks are shiny, egg-shaped leaves that have toothed-edges on the upper surfaces. In Phuket, Thailand, locals place the shrub's leaves on top of dishes like steamed fish. The plant, which has some medicinal properties, can also be made into a soap substitute or a fish poison.

    Vigna Unguiculata

    • The cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) is cultivated in West Africa and grows in tropical regions throughout the world. The plant can reach 32 inches in height. It has lateral, asymmetrical leaflets and symmetrical central leaflets, with petioles that grow up to 9 inches long. The legume is considered to have high palatability, meaning it's leaves and flowers can be easily consumed. The cowpea is highly nutritious and can be found in wild, tropical environments, thought it has myriad uses a crop.

    Vernonia Amygdalina

    • Growing up to 16 feet, the ewuro, or bitter leaf shrub, grows throughout tropical regions in Africa. Its green leaves are less than 1/2 inch in diameter. The shrub's leaves are edible, but it's advised they be washed before eating to reduce its bitterness. Eating the bitter leaf stimulates the digestive system and is known to reduce fevers. The leaves are also used medicinally against leeches.

    Rubus

    • The rubus, commonly known as the blackberry, raspberry or dewberry can be found in tropical regions throughout the world. The shrub grows from 9 to 39 feet in length and produces leaves less than an inch in length. It comes in a variety of species which each produces a red or black fruit that is often nutritious and delicious. Other parts of the shrub are not eaten and the roots are poisonous.

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