Fabaceae / Papilionaceae

88
Caryophyllaceae
Polycarpaea spicata Wight. & Arn.
English name:
Local name:
Description:
An annual small erect herb 5-10 cm high with woody tap-root, slender stem, soft
fleshy leaves formed rosette at the base. Flowers in terminal spike like dense
cymes, combination of bright white and pinkish colours, individual flower has no
stalk. Seeds angular.
Flowering Period:
Throughout the year depending upon availability of moisture/rain fall.
Habitat:
Commonly found in dry river beds and other sandy places.
Uses:
The plant leaves are extensively used against poisonous
bites from animals.
Distribution:
North-west India, Arabia, Egypt, Northern Australia, and
Pakistan (Sindh, Balochistan).