Leucosyke capitellata

Wedd.

UrticaceaeLeavesPotential hazards — see below
Caution — Parts of this plant may be toxic or require specific preparation. Verify with multiple sources before consuming.
Leucosyke capitellata
iNaturalist · cc-by-nc-sa
(c) Sustainable Strategies Network, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC-SA), uploaded by Sustainable Strategies Network
Leucosyke capitellata
iNaturalist · cc-by-nc
(c) wenj, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC)

What to Eat

Edible parts: Leaves

We have no reports of the leaves being edible, but they are said to be a particularly rich source of magnesium (containing 626 mg/100 g).

Known Hazards

Unlike many species in the nettle family (Urticaceae), members of this genus do not have stinging hairs.

Where to Find It

It is a tropical plant.

Asia, Malaysia, SE Asia,

Countries: United Arab Emirates, Afghanistan, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bahrain, Brunei, Bhutan, China, Georgia, Indonesia, Israel, India, Iraq, Iran, Jordan, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, Cambodia, North Korea, South Korea, Kuwait, Kazakhstan, Laos, Lebanon, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Mongolia, Maldives, Malaysia, Nepal, Oman, Philippines, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Syria, Thailand, Tajikistan, Timor-Leste, Turkmenistan, Turkey, Taiwan, Uzbekistan, Vietnam, Yemen

How to Identify

A tropical shrub or small tree of the Urticaceae family.

How to Grow

A dioecious species, both male and female forms need to be grown if fruit and seed are required.

Medicinal Uses

A decoction of the roots is used in the treatment of phthisis, coughs, headache and gastralgia. A decoction of the leaves is used in the treatment of diabetes, high blood pressure and lumbago

Other Uses

A strong fibe obtained from the bark is used in making ropes. The leaves are rough to the touch on one side, and this is used for scouring pots and pans

References (2)
  • Hoe, V. B. & Siong, K. H., 1999, The nutritional value of indigenous fruit and vegetables in Sarawak. Asia Pacific J. Clin. Nutr. 8(1):24-31
  • World Checklist of Useful Plant Species 2020. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew

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