Manihot Grahamii

Description

Manihot grahamii, also known as Graham’s cassava or wild cassava, is an interesting plant belonging to the Euphorbiaceae family. This plant is related to the edible cassava (Manihot esculenta), but is mainly valued for its ornamental value and ecological role.

The leaves of Manihot grahamii are deeply incised and palmate, usually with 5-7 lobes. They have a striking, bright green color and can grow up to 15 cm wide.
The plant produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are greenish-yellow in color. The flowers grow in clusters and are usually dioecious (male and female flowers on separate plants).
The plant can reach a height of 2-4 meters, depending on the growing conditions. It has a bushy growth habit with multiple stems.

Manihot grahamii is native to South America, particularly in countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay.
Due to its ornamental value and ecological role, the plant is also cultivated in other parts of the world, including North America and Europe.

The plant is primarily valued as an ornamental plant due to its striking foliage and exotic appearance. It is often used in tropical and subtropical gardens, as a hedge or as an accent plant.
Manihot grahamii plays an important role in its natural habitat by providing food and shelter for a variety of animals, including insects and birds.
The plant is sometimes used in scientific research due to its relationship to the edible cassava (Manihot esculenta), which can help in understanding the genetics and properties of cassava.

The plant thrives best in a warm, subtropical to tropical climate. It is not fully hardy and can tolerate light frost.
Manihot grahamii prefers well-drained, fertile soil, but can also grow in poorer soil types.
Full sun to partial shade is ideal for optimal growth. In very hot climates, some afternoon shade may be beneficial.

Young plants need regular watering, but once established they are fairly drought tolerant. It is important to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
During the growing season the plant can benefit from a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth.
Pruning is usually not necessary, except to remove dead or damaged branches and to maintain the shape of the plant.

Although Manihot grahamii is not edible, it is closely related to the edible cassava (Manihot esculenta), a staple crop in many tropical countries.
The plant is a fast grower and can reach considerable height in a short time, making it suitable for use as a hedge or windbreak.