Its popularity could be attributed to its striking peltate leaves and smooth globose tuber that makes it a conversation piece. Stephania erecta Craib (described by William Grant Craib with publication date of October 1922) is native to Thailand where it is found in thickets or forests with sparse vegetation. The soil in these central and northeastern regions where they abound are laterite or reddish in color due to ferric or aluminum oxide deposits. Natives gather them for their medicinal properties – to alleviate body aches and pains, and to relieve digestion problems among others. They can also be used as food on the table.
