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Description
Achyranthes Aspera, also known as the prickly chaff flower or devil’s horsewhip, is a plant species that belongs to the family Amaranthaceae. It is an annual or perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 meters in height. This plant is native to tropical and subtropical regions, including Asia, Africa, Australia, and America.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Caryophyllales |
| Family | Amaranthaceae |
| Genus | Achyranthes |
Appearance
The leaves of Achyranthes Aspera are elliptical and grow up to 15 centimeters in length. They are hairy and have a pointed tip. The plant produces small greenish-white flowers that are arranged in clusters. The fruit is a capsule that contains small black seeds. The stem is erect, stout, and has a reddish tinge. The plant has a bitter taste and a strong odor.
Care Guide
Achyranthes Aspera requires moderate watering to keep the soil moist. It prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. The plant grows well in full sun or partial shade. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 15 degrees Celsius and as high as 40 degrees Celsius. The plant is hardy in USDA zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Achyranthes Aspera is susceptible to aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. It may also suffer from leaf spot and powdery mildew. To prevent these pests and diseases, ensure proper watering and fertilization, and remove any infected plant parts immediately.
Habitat
Achyranthes Aspera grows in a variety of habitats, including disturbed areas, waste places, roadsides, and agricultural fields. It prefers moist soil and can tolerate both acidic and alkaline soils. The plant is commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Achyranthes Aspera edible?
A: Yes, the leaves and seeds of Achyranthes Aspera are edible and are used in traditional medicine and cuisine.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Achyranthes Aspera?
A: Achyranthes Aspera has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antioxidant properties. It is used to treat various ailments, including fever, diarrhea, asthma, and rheumatism.
Q: How do you propagate Achyranthes Aspera?
A: Achyranthes Aspera can be propagated by seeds or stem cuttings. The seeds should be sown in well-drained soil, and the stem cuttings should be planted in a moist rooting medium.
Q: Is Achyranthes Aspera an invasive species?
A: Yes, Achyranthes Aspera can become invasive in some areas due to its fast growth and ability to produce many seeds.
Related Plants
- Achyranthes bidentata
- Achyranthes calea
- Achyranthes coynei
- Achyranthes japonica
- Achyranthes splendens
References
- https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/prickly-chaff-flower/growing-prickly-chaff-flower-plants.htm
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4481171/
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/312049616_Cytotoxic_activity_of_Achyranthes_aspera_extract_against_human_breast_cancer_MCF-7_cells
- https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0975947616301344
