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Description
Canscora Andrographioides, also known as the False Water Willow, is a perennial herb that belongs to the family Gentianaceae. It is native to India and can be found in various parts of the country. The plant has a bitter taste and is often used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat a range of ailments.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Gentianaceae |
| Genus | Canscora |
Appearance
Canscora Andrographioides grows up to 60cm in height and has a thin stem. The leaves are opposite, lanceolate, and have a glossy appearance. The flowers are small, white, and have a tubular shape. They bloom in clusters at the end of the stem and have a sweet fragrance.
Care Guide
Canscora Andrographioides is a low maintenance plant that requires minimal care. Here are some tips for its care:- Water: The plant prefers moist soil, so it should be watered regularly. However, overwatering should be avoided as it can lead to root rot.- Fertilization: The plant does not require frequent fertilization. A monthly dose of organic fertilizer can be beneficial.- Soil: The plant grows well in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.- Sunlight: The plant prefers partial sun to shade and should be placed in a location that receives a few hours of direct sunlight each day.- Hardiness Zones: The plant can be grown in USDA hardiness zones 9 to 11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Canscora Andrographioides is generally not prone to pests and diseases. However, overwatering can lead to root rot, and fungal diseases can occur in humid conditions. Aphids may also attack the plant, and they can be controlled using insecticidal soap.
Habitat
Canscora Andrographioides is native to India and can be found in various parts of the country, including the Western Ghats, the Nilgiri hills, and the Eastern Ghats. The plant prefers moist soil and partial sun to shade.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Canscora Andrographioides be grown indoors?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown indoors as long as it receives a few hours of sunlight each day.
Q: What are the medicinal properties of Canscora Andrographioides?
A: The plant is used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat fever, liver ailments, and digestive disorders.
Q: Does Canscora Andrographioides attract bees?
A: Yes, the plant attracts bees and other pollinators.
Q: Can the plant be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the plant can be propagated from stem cuttings.
Related Plants
– Canscora Decussata- Canscora Diffusa- Canscora Heteroclita- Canscora Loureiriana
References
– “Canscora andrographioides.” Flowers of India, www.flowersofindia.net/catalog/slides/False%20Water%20Willow.html.- “Canscora andrographioides (Wall. ex G. Don) Wight.” The Plant List, www.theplantlist.org/tpl1.1/record/kew-2697544.
