Seeds	leaf shape
young seedling	older seedling

Note: The word omhungu is often used wrongly about this species. Omhungu refers only to ombidi that has been boiled and then dried as a loose layer. 

DESCRIPTION
The Spider flower is an annual herb which can grow up to a size of 60 cm. The older leaves are divided into five leaflets (like a hand) and the plant is easy to identify on its white flowers. The fruit is a 8-10 cm long capsule. It splits open when mature and scatters the seed.

USE
This is the most common Ombidi species, found in most fields. It is regarded as the most important by all 24 farmers interviewed. It can be used on its own but is usually mixed with Ekwakwa and Omundjulu. It is slightly bitter and fibrous but this may be reduced by mixing with other species and by the long boiling time.

Ombidi is picked at seedling stage when flowers have not yet developed. If the plant is too old and has started flowering, young tops may still be harvested if there is a shortage of spinach.

POTENTIAL FOR CULTIVATION
A promising species for cultivation. The plant produces many leaves and is found in large numbers in most fields and gardens. 

Seed collection is very easy for this species, just by picking mature capsules and air dry them. The seed weight is relatively high, 1000 seeds = 1 gram.