This species is utilized for its edible tubers and seeds, but also for its horticultural properties as an ornamental vine in warmer parts of the world. The leaves are battered and deep fried in Vietnam. Antigonon leptopus was prepared for consumption by the aboriginal inhabitants of Baja California Sur in a way reminiscent of preparing popcorn. The seeds were toasted by placing them in a flat basket made of flexible twigs which was torn into strips and woven to make a solid surface. On top of the seeds live coals were placed, and with both hands the basket was shaken so that the coals came up against the seeds, toasting them, but not burning the basket. When the toasting was finished, the burned-out coals were removed. Using this method, a major portion of the seeds burst open, exposing a white meal. Afterwards, the seeds were separated from the husks from which they had emerged by tossing them into the air with the basket, similar to the method used in winnowing wheat in Spain. The seeds were then ground and the resulting meal was eaten. Alternatively, the seeds could be boiled and made into fried cakes.

The genus name, Antigonon, is derived from the Greek word anti meaning "in place of" and polygonum meaning a "member of the Knotweed family." Poly references "many," and gonu means "joint." derived from two Greek words, leptos, "thin, slender, or small", and pous, "foot", likely in reference to the base of the flower.

Native to the Pacific and Atlantic coastal plains of Mexico, but also occurs as a roadside weed from Mexico south to Central America.  It is widely introduced and invasive throughout tropical regions of the world where it has become a staple food. It is not an invasive plant for our region, particularly since it is native just on the other side of the border in Sonora.