Leaf
Bitter Leaf
Bitter leaf
Gymnanthemum amygdalinum
A deliberately bitter Nigerian soup leaf, widely documented under the older botanical name Vernonia amygdalina.
Ingredient record
Names & identity
Names can vary by language, market and region. Only reviewed names are displayed here.
| Nigerian/common name | Bitter Leaf |
|---|---|
| English/common name | Bitter leaf |
| Botanical name | Gymnanthemum amygdalinum |
| Also known as | Vernonia amygdalina |
What is Bitter Leaf?
Bitter leaf is the leaf of Gymnanthemum amygdalinum, a shrub or small tree widely known in older literature as Vernonia amygdalina. It is used for intentional bitterness in Nigerian soups.
What is Bitter Leaf called in English?
Bitter leaf is already the established English common name. The botanical name helps distinguish it from unrelated bitter greens.
Flavour & identification
What does it taste like?
Pronounced, clean bitterness that can be moderated by washing.
What does it look like?
Green elliptic to lance-shaped leaves, often with a pointed tip. Fresh bunches may be washed repeatedly before sale or cooking.
Using Bitter Leaf in Nigerian cooking
Which dishes use it?
Ofe onugbu
Bitter-leaf soup
How do you prepare it?
Wash and squeeze according to the desired bitterness and the dish, then add to the soup at the stage specified by the recipe.
Sources & further reading
Reviewed by Nigerian Spices editorial desk, 15 September 2026.
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