Entada rheedei — an easy houseplant, prefers full sun light
SPECIMEN · FROM THE LIBRARY
Entada rheedei

Entada Rheedei

Updated · 8 observations
ON THIS PLANT

Entada rheedei, commonly known as the African dream herb, is a large woody vine native to tropical regions of Africa. Belonging to the Fabaceae family, this vine can grow up to 30 meters in length. The plant features large pinnately compound leaves that can reach up to 50 centimeters in length. Its flowers are small and inconspicuous, with a greenish-yellow color.

One of the most remarkable characteristics of Entada rheedei is its sizable seed pods, which can grow up to 2 meters in length and contain numerous flat, round seeds about the size of a quarter. For centuries, African tribes have used these seeds for their psychoactive properties, which are known to induce vivid dreams.

In addition to its traditional use as a dream enhancer or aid for lucid dreaming among indigenous people across Africa, Entada rheedei has also been utilized for medicinal purposes. Its anti-inflammatory properties have made it useful in treating conditions such as fever and malaria.

Overall, Entada rheedei is a plant of significant cultural importance due to its traditional uses among African tribes. Its potential medicinal benefits also warrant further exploration through scientific research.

A note from PlantMom

The African dream herb is resistant to disease and generally does not tend to get sick. As for upkeep, this plant is fairly low-maintenance. When grown outdoors it needs only light watering, and larger specimens typically do not require pruning. Smaller plants, however, should be trimmed after they have finished blooming. African dream herbt is suitable for anyone with an outdoor area, like a garden or a deck, and does not call for extensive care experience.

— PlantMom
CARE GUIDE

How to keep Entada Rheedei.

Light

African dream herb originates from open habitats, such as sunny meadows and forest edges, which provide abundant light. It thrives in Full Sun but can also tolerate Partial Sun, adapting well to a range of sunlight conditions.

Temperature

The African dream herb comes from tropical areas, which generally have warm, humid climates. Consequently, it is well adapted to high temperatures and humidity. It does not tolerate sudden temperature changes and prefers a stable temperature, so avoiding temperature fluctuations indoors is important. It usually cannot tolerate cold and needs higher temperatures for growth. If the surrounding temperature drops too low, the plant may stop growing or even die.

CHARACTERISTICS

Botanical profile.

Plant Type
Vine
Life Cycle
Perennial
Genus
Entada
Family
Fabaceae
Hardiness Zone
10-11
Mature Height
15.24 m to 30.48 m
Mature Spread
10.06 m to 14.94 m
Leaf Color
Green
Leaf Type
Evergreen
Flower Color
White
Flower Size
2.54 cm
Bloom Time
Late spring, Early summer, Mid summer
Planting Time
Summer, Autumn
Harvest Time
Late summer, Fall
ALSO KNOWN AS

Other names.

en African dream herb en Snuff box sea bean en Sea-bean en Cacoon Vine en Ladynut en Liane Sabre en Liane Staub en Mackary Bean en Elephant creeper
ALSO IN THE LIBRARY

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