A fast-growing, soft-stemmed vine whose thick, semi-succulent, heart-shaped leaves are widely used as a vegetable. The leaves have a mild flavour and mucilaginous texture and are a good source of proteins, fibers, vitamins A, C, E, K, B9 (folic acid), riboflavin, niacin, thiamine and minerals such as calcium, magnesium and iron. They can be boiled to thicken soups or stir fried with garlic and chili peppers.