Contents
Description
Justicia Procumbens, also known as the Sessile Joyweed, is a low-growing perennial herb that belongs to the Acanthaceae family. Originating from India and Sri Lanka, this plant is known for its medicinal properties and is used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments such as asthma, cough, and fever. It is a popular garden plant due to its vibrant purple flowers and its ability to attract butterflies and bees.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Acanthaceae |
| Genus | Justicia |
Appearance
Justicia Procumbens has soft, green, and hairy leaves that are arranged alternately on the stem. The leaves are lance-shaped and grow up to 5 cm long. The plant produces small, vibrant purple flowers that bloom in clusters from summer to fall. The flowers have a tubular shape and are about 1 cm long. The plant grows up to 30 cm in height and spreads up to 60 cm in width.
Care Guide
To ensure the proper growth and development of Justicia Procumbens, it is important to provide the plant with the right care. Here are some tips on how to care for this plant:Water: Water the plant regularly, making sure that the soil is moist but not waterlogged. Avoid overwatering as it can cause root rot.Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer during its growing season. Do not fertilize during the dormant season.Soil: Justicia Procumbens prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can grow in both acidic and alkaline soils.Sunlight: The plant prefers partial shade to full sun, making sure it is not exposed to direct sunlight for long periods.Hardiness Zones: Justicia Procumbens can grow in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Justicia Procumbens is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to spider mites, aphids, and whiteflies. It can also be affected by fungal diseases such as root rot and powdery mildew. To prevent these problems, make sure to provide the plant with proper care and maintain good hygiene practices.
Habitat
Justicia Procumbens is native to India and Sri Lanka and can be found growing in the wild in tropical and subtropical regions. It prefers open areas such as grasslands, roadsides, and waste places. It can also be found in gardens and parks as an ornamental plant.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Justicia Procumbens easy to grow?
A: Yes, Justicia Procumbens is easy to grow and maintain.Q: Can Justicia Procumbens be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Justicia Procumbens can be grown indoors in a well-lit area.Q: How often should Justicia Procumbens be fertilized?
A: Justicia Procumbens should be fertilized once a month during the growing season.Q: Can Justicia Procumbens tolerate cold temperatures?
A: No, Justicia Procumbens cannot tolerate cold temperatures and should be protected from frost.
Related Plants
Here are some plants that are related to Justicia Procumbens:
- Justicia Adhatoda
- Justicia Brandegeeana
- Justicia Carnea
- Justicia Gracilis
References
- Muthukumarasamy, S., & Mohan, V. R. (2011). Justicia procumbens L.: A concise report on its ethnomedicinal, botanical, and phytopharmacological aspects. Pharmacognosy reviews, 5(9), 103–107. https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-7847.79103
- Justicia Procumbens. (n.d.). In Floridata. Retrieved February 9, 2022, from https://floridata.com/plant/406
- Justicia Procumbens. (n.d.). In Missouri Botanical Garden. Retrieved February 9, 2022, from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277682&isprofile=0&basic=justicia%20procumbens
