Description:
Handsome, with creeping rhizome and tall Stems occasionally reaching 3—4 m high. Leaves flat, green.
Inflorescence much branched, up to 60 cm long, conspicuously coloured owing to red-brown or purple
boat-shaped spathes which are only two or three times as long as broad. H. Cymbaria is commonly mistaken
for H. variabilis and H. Umbrosa which are both closely related and are found in the same habitat.
The spathes of both these species are longer than H. Cymbaria and are not as brightly colored.
Flowers from Nov - Jun
Habitat:
Grows in high altitude regions with high rainfall. Found on the edge of forests, in road reserves, and open slopes.
When it grows in low altitude, it is found in shade near water.
Distribution:
Throughout tropical Africa as well as Comores and Madagascar.
Uses:
Palatable grazing in early season but becomes too hard after the flowering stage.
Image Credits:
Swaziland's Flora Database
Malolotja Nature Reserve Grasses Checklist
K Braun
