About Talinum paniculatum (Jacq.) Gaertn.
Taxonomy
Talinum paniculatum (Jacq.) Gaertn. is a succulent subshrub belonging to the Talinaceae family.
Native Range
It is native to much of North and South America, plus Caribbean countries, with a confirmed native range that includes the southern United States, much of Latin America (such as Paraguay and Uruguay), and the Caribbean.
Introduced Range
It has been notably introduced to Africa and Asia.
Common Names
This species has several common names: fameflower, Jewels-of-Opar, and pink baby's-breath.
Etymology
The name Jewels-of-Opar is borrowed from the title of Edgar Rice Burroughs' novel Tarzan and the Jewels of Opar.
Ornamental Use
Talinum paniculatum is frequently grown as an ornamental plant, with known cultivars including 'Kingwood Gold', 'Limón', and 'Variegatum'.
Edible Use
Its leaves are edible, and are consumed in salads.
Medicinal Use
In Asia, the leaves have been used in traditional home medicine, where they are employed as a diuretic, healing agent, emollient, vulval treatment, and anti-infective.
