Content
- Are the fruits of my akebia edible?
- What do the fruits of Akebia quinata look like?
- The essentials in brief:
- Under what conditions do the fruits ripen?
- Do all flowers of Akebie fruits develop?
- Which parts of the Akebia quinata are suitable for culinary purposes?
- Tips
The bluish fruit of Akebia is edible
Are the fruits of my akebia edible?
As a useful plant, the Akebia quinata is certainly not in this country, it is often even feared that it is poisonous. However, this fear is superfluous, because the decorative fruits of akebia, also known as a climbing cucumber, are quite edible.
What do the fruits of Akebia quinata look like?
As the name climber suggests, the fruits of akebia look quite similar to a cucumber. They are finger-shaped and about 15 inches long. Their color is quite unusual for cucumbers, as is the sweet taste. The color is called blue frosted or violet and is more like an eggplant.
The essentials in brief:
Under what conditions do the fruits ripen?
Since the Akebia quinata belongs to the tropical plants, it needs heat and sun to ever flowers and later to bear fruit. In addition, it begins to flower at the age of about five years. In a young Akebie is therefore not expected to fruit. Older Akebien may be harvested in September or October.
Do all flowers of Akebie fruits develop?
Akebia quinata carries both male and female flowers, but only from the female flowers develop fruits. These flowers are brownish purple and smell of vanilla or chocolate. They are slightly larger than the male flowers, which you can easily recognize by their pink coloring. For a successful fertilization, it is useful to plant at least two akebien.
Which parts of the Akebia quinata are suitable for culinary purposes?
In addition to the sweet, slightly chocolate-tasting fruits, you can also use the sprouts and leaves in the kitchen. Incidentally, the fruit peels taste a bit bitter. They are still fried and eaten in their Asian homeland.
From the (dried) leaves of Akebia quinata you can make a tea. The young sprouts can also be eaten raw and prepared for example in a salad. The Akebia is said to have an analgesic and diuretic effect. It is designed to protect the stomach and prevent urinary tract infections.
Tips
Even without medical benefit, the fruit is a culinary experience.