Summer Snapdragon

Overview

Native to Mexico, Guatemala, Cuba and was introduced in Ecuador, Fiji, Gilbert Islands, New Caledonia, Niue, Samoa, Trinidad-Tobago. The use of the angelonia plant is documented as an anti-inflammatory drug by indigenous cultures in Latin America. The plant is cultivated as an annual ornamental plant which is widely available. 

Vernacular Names

No found data on this. Need further research.

Agroecology

The angelonia plant is found in its natural habitat in Mexico at 0-2,000 m asl and grows best in moist but well-drained soil and in full sun. Prefers fertile loam soil at a soil pH of 5.5 - 6.2.

Morphology

• Roots - taproot.
• Stems - smooth, much branched from the base of the stem.
• Leaves - linear-shaped with pinnate venation and serrated margin.
• Flowers - dark rose with a hint of violet or purple, 5-petalled, slightly fragrant, fused at the base forming a throat. The throat of the flower shows tiny dots of purple. The flowers are borne on a terminal raceme, measuring around 12 cm long.
• Fruits - sub-globose brown capsule.
• Seeds - small.

Cultivation

Propagated by seeds and stem cuttings.

Chemical Constituents

Lupeol, phenol, alkaloid, tannin, flavonoid, saponin, steroid.

Traditional Medicinal Uses

The plant is considered as anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antihyperlipidemic activities.