Aspilia africana

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  • Botanical Name/Scientific Name: Aspilia africana
  • Genus: Aspilia
  • Synonym: Aspilia africana var. guineensis C.D.Adams
  • Common/Local Name(s): Wild Sunflower or Haemorrhage Plant.
  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Botanical Description: Aspilia africana typically grows to a height of about 1 to 2 meters. It has a robust, erect stem that is sometimes woody at the base. The stems are branched and covered with coarse hairs, which can be reddish in color. Leaves The leaves of Aspilia africana are simple, opposite, and oval to lanceolate in shape, with serrated edges. They are usually green and can be up to 14 cm long and 4 cm wide. The leaves are slightly rough due to the presence of hairs. The plant produces composite flowers that resemble small sunflowers. The flower heads are bright yellow, about 2-3 cm in diameter, and consist of a central disc surrounded by ray florets. It flowers mainly during the rainy season, which can vary by location within its range. The fruit is a small achene that may be dispersed by wind due to its light weight and sometimes by animals due to its barbed bristles.
  • Flowering/Fruiting: Flowering begins as early as March and continue until around May.
  • Plant Uses: Medicinal Uses and Ornamental Use.
  • Origin: Introduced
  • Locality: Wazobia Complex Rumuosi, Rivers State.
  • Habit: Herb
  • Mode: Wild

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