Echites panduratus
A climbing vine with edible flowers used in Central American cuisine.
Echites panduratus, commonly known as loroco, is a climbing vine with edible flowers. It is widespread in Guatemala, El Salvador, and other Central American countries, as well as parts of Mexico. The species is an important food source in Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, where its buds and flowers are used in cooking, including in pupusas.
Quick Facts
- Taxon
- Echites panduratus
Facts from the source article.
Lore & Background
Echites panduratus is an herbaceous vine with oblong-elliptical to broadly ovate leaves 4–13 cm long and 1.5–8 cm broad. Its inflorescences are generally somewhat shorter than the leaves, bearing 8–18 flowers with pedicels 4–6 mm long. The bracts are ovate, 1–2 mm long; calyx lobes are ovate, acute or obtuse, 2–3 mm long; and the corolla is white within and greenish outside.
Reader's Guide
Echites panduratus, known as loroco, is a climbing vine native to Central America and parts of Mexico. Its edible flowers and buds are a traditional food source in Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador, used in dishes such as pupusas. The species ranges from northeastern Mexico to Costa Rica. Despite its culinary importance, the plant remains relatively obscure outside its native range. Its flowers are harvested and cooked in various ways, contributing to local cuisine and economy. The vine's botanical description includes leaves 4–13 cm long and inflorescences with 8–18 flowers. The corolla is white inside and greenish outside. This species is a notable example of a wild plant incorporated into regional food culture.
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