Identification:
A small, woody plant, 1-2 meters tall, with a round stem that branches profusely, forming dense thickets. Young branches are long, glossy green, and glabrous (without hairs). Leaves are opposite, entire, thin, glossy, and dark green; petioles are 1 cm long. Inflorescences are short. Flowers are axillary (growing from the leaf axils), large, and white. Sepals are 5, long and narrow, 1.5 cm in length. The corolla (petals) is 8-10 cm long, with a lip longer than the tube. There are 5 stamens (male reproductive parts). The fruit is a capsule containing 4 seeds.
Biology and Ecology:
The plant is cultivated for ornamental purposes and as a hedge in the lowlands. It adapts well to various soil types. Propagation is done by stem cuttings, with sections of 20 cm in length. Flowering occurs from March to June.
Distribution:
Currently, it is only known to exist in the northern regions of Vietnam. It is now cultivated in several southeastern regions for ornamental purposes and medicinal use.
Uses:
The stem and roots contain flavonoids, with the primary component being Apigenin 7-O-β-glucoside. The leaves are used medicinally, similar to the leaves of Acanthus species, for treating aches, pains, and rheumatism.