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Plumbago indica

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Plumbago indica

Family Name: Plumbaginaceae
Common Name: Scarlett Leadwort, Rosy-flowered Leadwort

Name

Family Name
Genus Epithet
Species Epithet
Name Status (botanical)
Common Names

Classifications and Characteristics

Plant Division Angiosperms (Flowering Seed Plants)
Plant Growth Form Shrub

Biogeography

Native Distribution India
Native Habitat Terrestrial
Preferred Climate Zone Tropical

Description and Ethnobotany

Growth Form It is an evergreen shrub with loose growth habit, and can grow up to 1.5 m tall. 
Foliage Simple, ovate-shaped, alternately arranged along the stem. 
Flowers Inflorescence in terminal spike form, bright red colour. 
Etymology The genus epithet 'Plumbago' is derived from the Latin "plumbum" meaning "lead" (the metallic element). Named after a European species which was used to cure lead poisoning.  The specific epithet 'indica' means from India.
Ethnobotanical Uses Food (Herb or Spice): It is said that the root improves digestion and promotes appetite. 
Medicinal: The plant is said to have antiseptic properties but only in small doses.

Landscaping Features

Desirable Plant Features Ornamental Flowers
Landscape Uses Parks & Gardens, Small Gardens

Plant Care and Propagation

Light Preference Full Sun
Water Preference Moderate Water
Rootzone Tolerance Well-Drained Soils
Propagation Method Seed, Stem Cutting

Foliar

Mature Foliage Colour(s) Green
Leaf Area Index (LAI) for Green Plot Ratio 4.5 (Shrub & Groundcover - Dicot)

Floral (Angiosperm)

Flower Colour(s) Red

Image Repository

Images

Others

Master ID 1054
Species ID 2347
Flora Disclaimer The information in this website has been compiled from reliable sources, such as reference works on medicinal plants. It is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment and NParks does not purport to provide any medical advice. Readers should always consult his/her physician before using or consuming a plant for medicinal purposes.
Species record last updated on: 14 October 2021.
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