Aframomum angustifolium


Aframomum angustifolium, known as longoza is a species in the ginger family Zingiberaceae that grows in tropical Africa and in Madagascar.

Description

Aframomum angustifolium is herbaceous and like other plants of this family, its erect "stems" consist of layered tubular leaf bases. The fruit is a berry containing many seeds surrounded by sugary-sweet and sour edible pulp.

Etymology

The species name, angustifolium, means "narrow-leaved" in Latin.
Malagasy people know it as a source of energy during long hunting treks.

Uses

The plant's crushed seeds are used as a peppery spice. The leaves are also used as disposable receptacles for eating rice.