Asteraceae
Ebolo: Edible Plant
Crassocephalum crepidioides
Requires a warm and humid environment with consistent watering to prevent the leaves from wilting. It prefers bright indirect light and soil very rich in organic matter.
Every 3 days
Partial shade
15° - 35°C
60% - 90%
Categories
What is Ebolo?
Ebolo (Crassocephalum crepidioides) is a medium-care plant from the Asteraceae family. Crassocephalum crepidioides, commonly known as ebolo or redflower ragleaf, is an erect annual herb that reaches up to 1 meter in height. It is characterized by its succulent leaves and drooping reddish or orange flowers. Native to tropical Africa, it has naturalized in many tropical regions of Asia...
Ebolo grows up to 1.2m, spread of 60cm, watering every 3 days, 15°C – 35°C, 60–90% humidity. It is suitable for indoor environments and not safe for pets.
Without precautions, ingestion can cause irritation in pets. Keep out of reach of cats and dogs. Without adequate drainage, root rot can develop within 7 days.
How to Care for Ebolo?
TLDR: Ebolo needs Partial shade, watering every 3 days, and temperatures between 15-35°C with 60-90% humidity.
How Often Should You Water Ebolo?
Keep the soil evenly moist; if the plant droops, it is usually an immediate sign of water deficiency.
How Much Light Does Ebolo Need?
Prefers bright filtered light; direct midday sun can burn its tender leaves.
What Is the Best Soil for Ebolo?
Use a mix that retains moisture but is rich in nitrogen to promote foliage growth.
What Pot Should You Use for Ebolo?
Clay pot with good drainage to maintain moisture without waterlogging the roots.
Care Schedule
Fertilize
Every 30 days
Misting
Every 2 days
Rotate
Every 15 days
Repot
Every 365 days
What Is Ebolo and Where Does It Come From?
Crassocephalum crepidioides, commonly known as ebolo or redflower ragleaf, is an erect annual herb that reaches up to 1 meter in height. It is characterized by its succulent leaves and drooping reddish or orange flowers. Native to tropical Africa, it has naturalized in many tropical regions of Asia and the Americas, where it is valued for both its nutritional properties and its rapid growth. Its leaves have a slightly spicy flavor and a fleshy texture.
How to Propagate Ebolo?
Sowing by seeds
- The seeds are very light and can blow away; sow in a location protected from the wind.
- 1 Seedbed preparation
Use a fine substrate rich in humus, pre-moistening it before use.
- 2 Sowing
Scatter the small seeds over the surface and cover with a very thin layer of soil.
- 3 Maintenance
Keep the substrate constantly moist and in a warm place until germination.
Materials needed:
Stem cuttings
- Ensure the substrate does not dry out completely during the process.
- 1 Cutting the stem
Cut a healthy stem section of about 10-15 cm with at least two nodes.
- 2 Planting
Remove the lower leaves and insert the stem into a mix of peat and perlite.
- 3 Rooting
Maintain high humidity by covering with clear plastic if necessary.
Materials needed:
How Big Does Ebolo Grow?
TLDR: Ebolo can reach up to 1.2m tall with Fast growth rate.
Max height
1.2m
Spread
60cm
Growth rate
Fast
Foliage
Semi-evergreen
Warning: Toxic Plant
This plant can be toxic if ingested. Keep out of reach of:
Plant Uses
Edible
Can be consumed
Medicinal
Medicinal properties
Ornamental
Great for decoration
Medicinal Uses
- Treatment of indigestion
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Topical use for wound healing
Culinary Uses
- Fresh leaves in salads
- Steamed or sautéed leaves
- Ingredient in traditional African soups and stews
Is your plant showing symptoms?
Click on the symptom to discover possible causes:
Meaning & Symbolism
Represents resilience and abundance in various African cultures due to its ability to regrow quickly.
Compare with similar plants
| Attribute | Difficulty | Light | Watering | Pet Safe |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dark Fieldcap | Medium | Low light | 2d | ⚠️ |
| Azalea | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ⚠️ |
| Muriel's Bamboo | Medium | Partial shade | 3d | ✓ |
| Bougainvillea | Medium | Direct sun | 7d | ⚠️ |
