Native to Africa, this is an ecotype with large leaves and very fast growth. Traditional usage (dried root): (Ayurveda and Dawa za Asili): energy and sexual tonic. Plant prefers full sun, fast-draining, alkaline (pH 7.5 to 8.0) soil and dryish conditions. Sweeten regular garden soil with ground limestone. Space 1 foot apart–grows 2 to 3 feet tall, producing eventually the lantern-like pods enclosing the pea-sized fruits, green at first and becoming bright red as the inflated calyx dries and becomes transparent.
