Scientific Name
Other Names
Life Form
Family
Medicine- In herbal medicine, used as an aphrodisiac, a diuretic and a purgative. It is also used to treat dropsy, scabies, muscular swelling, urinary infections, diarrhoea, indigestion, rash, haemorrhoids, conjunctivitis and fevers The bulbous roots of the flower have a laxative effect. Cosmetics/Essential oils- The powdered seed is used as a cosmetic powder. Dye- Source of edible crimson dye is obtained from the flowers used for colouring cakes and jellies.
Mexico to Central America
Sub-tropical biome.
Perennial herb
Erect, branched, often reddish.
Opposite, ovate or triangular, with entire margins.
Trumpet-shaped, colorful (white, pink, red, yellow, or variegated), opening in late afternoon or cloudy weather.
Nut-like, containing one seed.
Flowering: Spring