How to Find Arrowroot
Arrowroot (Maranta arundinacea) is a perennial herb found across the world in both naturalized and native states. Its rhizome is used in cooking in various world cuisines. Looking for arrowroot involves knowledge of its appearance both above and below ground, as well as knowledge of its habitat and general locations.
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Stems and Leaves
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Arrowroot is a large plant; it can grow up to 6 feet high, with stems resembling reed stalks. The plant has alternate lance-head-shaped leaves that are light green on both sides; the leaves may have white streaks. The undersides of the leaves are lightly hairy.
Flowers and Fruit
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The plant produces off-white flowers that bloom in pairs and look like lips. The calyx--the part of the flower that protects it while still a bud--of the flowers is green. Arrowroot bears sphere-shaped fruit.
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Below-Ground Features
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The root of the arrowroot plant grows about 5 inches across and 10 inches long. The arrowroot can have one, two or three main roots. Roots, covered by a light brown and scaly skin on the outside, are white underneath the skin. The main root or roots grow other roots off the end.
Habitat and General Locations
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Arrowroot is native to rainforests. The plant is native to Central America and the West Indies (on the islands of Jamaica and St Vincent) but also can be found in Australia, Florida (where it is naturalized), South Africa, Brazil, southern China, Southeast Asia, Bermuda and the Caribbean.
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