Fockea edulis

Fockea edulis
Scientific Name: Fockea edulis K. Schum.
Synonym: Fockea cylindrica
Family: Asclepiadaceae

Recommended Temperature Zone:
USDA: 10-12

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to 28°F ( -2°C), will take some frost for a short period of time

Sun Exposure: Light shade, the tuber should stay constantly in the shade

Origin: Namibia, South Africa (North Cape, Western Cape)

Growth Habits: Semi-deciduous caudiciform vine, tuber up to 2 feet in diameter (60 cm)

Propagation: Seeds cuttings

The species name 'edulis' means edible. The Hottentots used to eat the tuber. The tuber is edible after the alkaloids in the latex have been inactivated by cooking. Some parts of the plants are also poisonous.

Fockea edulis in Art Pacheco's collection in Tucson

Fockea cylindrica in Art Pacheco's collection in Tucson

Blooming Habits:
The Fockea edulis has green, sweet smelling 0.25-0.5 inches wide (0.6-1.5 cm) flowers in late summer. The flowers are pollinated by fruit flies and are followed by grey pods.

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