Maerua Oblongifolia

Maerua oblongifolia (syn. Maerua arenaria, Niebhuria arenaria) is a low woody bushy under-shrub sometimes scandent to 2–3 meters high, with a thick root stock and thick leaves, and strongly scented flowers, occurring in India, Pakistan, Africa and Saudi Arabia. In Telugu this plant is known as Bhoochakra gadda (In Telangana) and also as Bhoochakra dumpa (In Andhra). In Tamil this plant is called Poomicchakkarai Kizhangu (பூமிச் சர்க்கரைக் கிழங்கு). This is a tuber that naturally grows in areas closer to fountains, especially in hills. Local Tribes and others collect the tubers, which are then sold in many Indian town and cities as a quick street food.

PLATES