Aristolochia bracteolata Lam.

Description:

Family: AristolochiaceaeLocal name(Telugu)Gadidagadapa, Nalla eswariDistribution: Common as a weed in tropical Asia and AfricaA perennial prostrate herb, branches up to 30cm long, Leaves cordate-reniform, base cordate, Flowers solitary, axilary, dark purple, perianth tube4-5cm long, the tube inflatd below, then contracted in to a cylindrical neck, then expanded in a dialated oblique limb with revolute margins. Stamens 6 adnate and around the style column, ovary inferior 6 celled, ovules many 2 seriate, Fruit a septicidal capsule, 12 ribbed,splitting through placentas. Decoction of the roots and leaves are used as anthelmenticand for insect bites.Photographed at Nellore. Ref: Flora of Presidency of Madras By J.S.Gamble.