Justicia gendarussa

Family: Acanthaceae

What it is like

Justicia gendarussa is a deciduous Shrub growing to 1 m (3ft 3in). The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Height (m): 1

Where it is found

Beds of streams in moister areas of the Himalayas.

E. Asia - India to Burma.

Conservation Status:

Countries/locations it is found in

How it is used

Food

Rating: 0

Medicine

Rating: 2

The leaf is antispasmodic, carminative and has antiperiodic properties. The leaves and tender young shoots are diaphoretic. A decoction is used in the treatment of chronic rheumatism. An infusion of the leaves is taken internally in the treatment of pains in the head, paralysis of one side of the body and facial paralysis. The leaf juice is used in the treatment of earache. The bitter root is anodyne, diaphoretic, diuretic and laxative. The root bark is emetic. The whole plant is emetic and febrifuge. A decoction is used to treat bruises.

Anodyne: Relieves pain, it is milder than an analgesic.

Antiperiodic: Counteracts recurring illnesses such as malaria.

Antiphlogistic: Reduces inflammation.

Antispasmodic: Relaxes muscular spasms and cramps, calming nervous irritation.

Carminative: Reduces flatulence and expels gas from the intestines.

Diaphoretic: Induces perspiration.

Diuretic: Acts on the kidneys, promoting the flow of urine.

Emetic: Induces vomiting.

Febrifuge: Reduces fevers.

Laxative: Stimulates bowel movements in a fairly gentle manner.

Other

Rating:

The dried leaves are used to repel insects from clothing.

Insecticide: Kills insects.

How it is grown

We have very little information on this species, it is probably not hardy in this country but might succeed outdoors in the mildest areas. One report says that it should be grown in a warm greenhouse and treated like a Fuchsia.

Propagating it: Seed - sow spring in a greenhouse. Prick out the seedlings into individual pots when large enough to handle and grow on in the greenhouse for at least the first winter. Plant out in late spring or early summer after the last expected frosts and give some protection over the winter.

Best place to grow: Cultivated Beds;

Habit: Shrub

Hardiness:

Growth:

Soil: Light (sandy), medium, heavy (clay)

Shade: Semi-shade, no shade

Moisture: Moist

Things to keep in mind

Its other names

Local names

Synonyms

Gendarussa vulgaris. Nees.