Contents
Description
Tylophora Ovata, commonly known as Indian Ipecac, is a perennial plant species belonging to the Apocynaceae family. It is native to India and can also be found in other parts of Asia, Africa, and Australia. It is widely used in traditional Indian medicine to treat various ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and cough.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Apocynaceae |
| Genus | Tylophora |
Appearance
Tylophora Ovata is a climbing plant that can grow up to 2 meters in height. It has long and slender stems with small leaves that are ovate or lanceolate in shape. The leaves are dark green and glossy on the upper surface and pale green on the lower surface. The plant produces small, greenish-yellow flowers that are about 8-10 mm in diameter. The fruits are slender and cylindrical, about 10-15 cm long and 0.5 cm in diameter.
Care Guide
Tylophora Ovata prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant should be watered regularly, but the soil should not be allowed to become waterlogged. Fertilization is recommended during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. The plant requires full sunlight to grow well, but it can also tolerate partial shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Tylophora Ovata is susceptible to various pests and diseases such as spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, and fungal infections. Regular inspection of the plant is recommended to detect any signs of infestation or disease. Infested plants should be treated immediately with insecticides or fungicides.
Habitat
Tylophora Ovata is native to India and can be found in other parts of Asia, Africa, and Australia. It grows in a variety of habitats such as open woodlands, grasslands, and rocky slopes.
Question and Answer
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Tylophora Ovata?
A: Tylophora Ovata is used in traditional Indian medicine to treat various respiratory ailments such as asthma, bronchitis, and cough. It is also used to treat fever, dysentery, and other gastrointestinal disorders.
Q: Can Tylophora Ovata be grown indoors?
A: Yes, Tylophora Ovata can be grown indoors as long as it receives adequate sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil.
Q: How often should Tylophora Ovata be fertilized?
A: Tylophora Ovata should be fertilized once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer.
Q: What is the hardiness zone of Tylophora Ovata?
A: Tylophora Ovata is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Related Plants
- Tylophora Barleria
- Tylophora Hirsuta
- Tylophora Indica
- Tylophora Linearis
References
- Flowers of India. (n.d.). Tylophora Ovata. Retrieved from http://www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/Indian%20Ipecac.html
- PlantZAfrica. (n.d.). Tylophora Ovata. Retrieved from http://pza.sanbi.org/tylophora-ovata
- Wikipedia. (2021, June 9). Tylophora. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tylophora
