Frog Fruit is a flowering, broadleaf plant native to South America. It is grows in a groundcover or turflike manner, and is often present in yards.
The inflorescence consists of a purple-coloured centre encircled by
small white-to-pink flowers. The flower takes on a match-like look,
which is why the plant is called matchweed. The leaf arrangement is
opposite. Each leaf has one to seven teeth on each edge starting at the
widest point and continuing to the tip. Frog Fruit is native to the whole
of Africa, temperate and tropical Asia, Australasia, Europe and tropical
America. In India, it occurs in almost all states at lower altitudes.
It is also found in the Himalayas, from Kumaun to Nepal and NE India, at
altitudes of 600-1400 m.
Medicinal uses: Plant decoction is given in uraema. Fresh juice is applied to bleeding gums. Infusion of leaves and tender stalk is given to children in indigestion and to women after delivary.
Identification credit: Navendu Pagé
Photographed in Nagarahole, Karnataka & Imphal, Manipur.
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The flower labeled Frog Fruit is ...