Portia tree

Thespesia populnea

leaf · flower

Young leaves, flowers and green fruits eaten raw, boiled or fried as a vegetable.

Origin

Southeast Asia and India (a tree of tropical coasts)

Where to find it

Planted on beaches and lagoon shores throughout the tropics, from India to Tahiti, often as a shade tree.

Season (United States)

all year round

Preparation

The young leaves, flowers and green fruits are rinsed and eaten raw, or boiled for a few minutes, or fried.

Molecules

Mucilages · Beta-carotene (vitamin A) · Lutein and zeaxanthin · Vegetable nitratesIn small amounts, not counted Chlorophyll

Did you know?

Its yellow flowers turn purple during the day.