Asystasia gangetica subsp. micrantha (Nees) Ensermu
Chinese Violet / Rumput itik/Rumput israel/Pengorak (M.)
Acanthaceae
Description
Traditional Medicinal Uses
Ecology
Propagation
Distribution
Precaution
Perennial herb that can reach up to 50 cm tall. Leaves are simple, oppositely arranged and sparsely hairy. Leaf blade is deltoid to elliptic-ovate, acute at apex, rounded or truncate at base with toothed or entire margin. Stems are succulent and erect. Flowers are white with purple tinge, small and tubular. Inflorescence a terminal raceme. Fruit a hairy capsule, brownish when dry that contains few brown seeds.
The leaves are eaten as salad to maintain general health. The plant is known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antidiabetic and antiasthmatic activities.
It prefers moist but well-drained soil under full sunlight. It is commonly found near coastal areas, in thickets, in disturbed areas, near streams and along roadsides.
Stem cutting.
Native to sub-Saharan Africa and had been introduced into Asia.
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