Gnetum edule
Gnetum edule (Willd.) Blume
Gnetum edule is an evergreen, woody, dioecious climbing vine native to southern India, growing between 100 and 1,500 meters in elevation. It is found in the hill forests of the Nilgiris, where it climbs on trees. New leaves emerge in March, followed by flowering in March–April and fruiting from April, with yellow fruits ripening in November.
Description
Gnetum edule belongs to the genus Gnetum in the family Gnetaceae. This species is native to southern India and is characterized by its climbing growth habit. It is dioecious, meaning male and female reproductive structures are found on separate plants. The plant thrives in hill forest environments, particularly in the Nilgiris region. Its life cycle includes new leaf growth in March, flowering in March–April, and fruiting that begins in April, with the fruits turning yellow and ripening by November.
Distribution
India
Synonyms
Gnemon edulisGnetum funiculareGnetum pyrifoliumGnetum scandensGnetum ulaThoa edulisThoa scandensGnetum funiculare