ചെത്തിക്കൊടുവേലി
Plumbago indica, commonly known as Scarlet Leadwort or Indian Leadwort, is a perennial shrub belonging to the family Plumbaginaceae. It is native to Southeast Asia and widely used in traditional medicine and ornamental gardening due to its striking red flowers and medicinal properties.
Scientific classification
- Kingdom : plantae
- Division :Trachiophites
- Clade : Angiosperms
- Clade : Eudicots
- Order : Caryophyllales
- Family : Plumbaginaceae
- Genus : Plumbago
- Species : Plumbago indica
Morphology
Morphology of Plumbago indica
Plumbago indica, or Scarlet Leadwort, is a perennial shrub with distinctive morphological features. Below is a detailed overview of its various plant parts:
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1. Roots
Type: The plant has a well-developed, branched taproot system.
Appearance: The roots are cylindrical, brownish, and woody.
Special Features: The roots contain plumbagin, a bioactive compound with medicinal properties.
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2. Stem
Structure: Erect, semi-woody, and branching.
Color: Light green to reddish-brown, becoming woody with age.
Texture: The stem is somewhat hairy, especially when young.
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3. Leaves
Arrangement: Alternate phyllotaxy.
Shape: Simple, ovate to elliptic leaves with entire or slightly wavy margins.
Size: Leaves are 5–10 cm long and 2–5 cm wide.
Color: Dark green on the upper surface, lighter on the underside.
Texture: The leaves are smooth, with a slightly leathery feel.
Petiole: Short, usually 1–2 cm long.
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4. Flowers
Inflorescence: Terminal racemes or clusters.
Color: Bright red or scarlet, contributing to its ornamental appeal.
Shape: Tubular flowers with five lobed petals.
Size: Individual flowers are about 2–3 cm long.
Reproductive Parts:
Stamens: Five, attached to the corolla tube.
Pistil: A single style with a stigma at the tip.
Blooming Season: Flowers bloom mainly during the warm months, attracting pollinators like butterflies.
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5. Fruit
Type: Capsule.
Appearance: Small, dry, and dehiscent (splits open when mature).
Seeds: Contains small, brownish seeds.
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6. Special Features
Glandular Hairs: The calyx and sometimes other plant parts have glandular hairs that may produce a sticky secretion.
Latex Production: The plant may exude a milky sap when cut or damaged.
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Conclusion
The striking red flowers, lush green foliage, and compact growth habit make Plumbago indica not only a valuable medicinal plant but also an attractive choice for ornamental gardening. I
Range
Native to:
Assam, Bangladesh, Cambodia, China South-Central, East Himalaya, Hainan, India, Jawa, Laos, Lesser Sunda Is., Maluku, Philippines, Sulawesi, Sumatera, Thailand, Vietnam
Introduced into:
Leeward Is., Peru, Puerto Rico, Sri Lanka, Trinidad-Tobago
Native Plants 