Giant potato is a type of morning glory plant. Like
the sweet potato, it belongs to the Ipomoea genera. It grows as a vine.
The origin of Ipomoea mauritiana is unknown, it is there all over the
tropics. It is naturalised in many parts of the world. This vine has
stems that can grow to 10 m. Leaf blade is circular in outline, 7-18 X
7-22 cm, usually palmately 5-7-divided to or beyond middle, rarely
entire or shallowly lobed. Inflorescences few to many flowered. Flowers
are pink or reddish purple, with a darker center, funnelform, 5-6 cm
across.
Medicinal uses: The leaves and roots are used
externally to treat tuberculosis and for the treatment of external and
breast infections. In Ayurveda, a decoction of the tuberous roots are
used for the preparation of medicinal wine. The Ayurvedic name is
Kiribadu Ala, and it is also an ingardient in Chyavanprash.
Identification credit: Pravin Kawale
Photographed in Maharashtra.
• Is this flower misidentified?
If yes,
Your name: Your email: Your comments
The flower labeled Giant Potato is ...