Musk Mallow,Musk Okra

Abelmoschus moschatus

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Basic Information

Family: Malvaceae

Genus: abelmoschus

Plant ID (slug): abelmoschus-moschatus

Numeric ID: 21189

USDA Hardiness: 8-11

Ratings

Physical Characteristics

Abelmoschus moschatus is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 9 and is frost tender. It is in flower from July to September, and the seeds ripen from August to October. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

S.E. Asia - Himalayas to China and Vietnam.

Habitats

Cultivated Beds; South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Oil Root Seed Seedpod Shoots Edible Uses: Condiment Oil Young leaves and shoots - cooked in soups[183, 272]. Used as a vegetable[238]. The leaves are also used to clarify sugar[183]. Unripe seedpods - cooked as a vegetable in much the same way as okra (A. esculentus)[183, 238, 272]. Seed - cooked[272]. It is fried or roasted and has a flavour similar to sesame seeds[272]. The seed is also used as a flavouring for liqueurs or to scent coffee[183, 238]. An essential oil is obtained from the plant and is used to flavour baked goods, ice cream, sweets and soft drinks[183]. Root[183]. No more details are given, though the root is likely to have a bland flavour and a fibrous texture.

Medicinal Uses

Antihalitosis Antispasmodic Aphrodisiac Appetizer Aromatherapy Digestive Nervine Stomachic Vulnerary An emulsion made from the seed is antispasmodic and is especially effective in the digestive system[4, 238]. The seeds are also chewed as a nervine, stomachic and to sweeten the breath[4, 238]. They are also said to be aphrodisiac[4, 238]. The seeds are valued medicinally for their diuretic, demulcent and stomachic properties. They are also said to be stimulant, antiseptic, cooling, tonic, carminative and aphrodisiac. A paste of the bark is applied to cuts, wounds and sprains[272]. The essential oil is used in aromatherapy for the treatment of depression and anxiety[238]. It is also applied externally to treat cramp, poor circulation and aching joints[238].