About Strobilanthes reptans (G.Forst.) Moylan ex Y.F.Deng & J.R.I.Wood
Taxonomic Classification
Strobilanthes reptans is a species of flowering plant in the genus Strobilanthes.
Native and Introduced Range
It is native to Tropical and Subtropical Asia and the West Pacific, and has been introduced to and now occurs in Florida and Louisiana.
Taxonomic Synonyms
This species currently has 35 recorded taxonomic synonyms. Most of these synonyms (28 in total) belong to the genus Hemigraphis, 5 additional synonyms belong to the genus Ruellia, and the remaining two synonyms are Strobilanthes primulifolia and Strobilanthes tawadana.
Ornamental Status and Invasiveness
Strobilanthes reptans has an ornamental appearance, and has been classified as an invasive weed in the Indo-Pacific islands region.
2019 Arunachal Pradesh Record
In 2019, the species was newly recorded in Tipi, located in the West Kameng district of Arunachal Pradesh. At this site, the species has not caused any adverse effects to local native flora, and is restricted to a single small location.
Habitat and Size at Tipi Site
The specimens found there grew on grassy hill slopes at an elevation of 150 meters above sea level, and reached up to 20 centimeters in height.
Flowering Period and Appearance
Strobilanthes reptans produces tubular flowers that bloom from June to September. Flowers are mainly white or pale violet, with darker-colored veins.
Fruiting Period
Fruiting of this species occurs from July through December.
