Emilia coccinea

NAME: Emilia coccinea

FAMILY: Asteraceae

COMMON NAMES: Scarlet tassel flower, Emilia

LOCAL NAMES: Hindi: Lakh-dana, Lakhadana; Tamil: Seemai-lathi; Bengali: Lakh-dana

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Emilia coccinea is an annual herbaceous plant that typically grows up to 60 centimeters in height. It has erect, branching stems and deeply cut, pinnately lobed leaves. The leaves are dark green and have a feathery appearance. The flowers of Emilia coccinea are small and arranged in dense clusters at the ends of the stems. They have vibrant scarlet petals, giving the plant its common name "Scarlet tassel flower." The plant produces small, dry fruits containing seeds.

USEFUL PART(s): The flowers and leaves of Emilia coccinea are the most commonly used parts of the plant.

GENERAL USES:

  1. Ornamental Plant: Emilia coccinea is often cultivated as an ornamental plant for its attractive scarlet flowers. It is commonly used in flower beds, borders, and as a cut flower in floral arrangements.

  2. Medicinal Uses: In traditional medicine, Emilia coccinea has been used for its various medicinal properties. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antimicrobial effects. It has been used to treat conditions such as skin infections, wounds, and inflammation.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Emilia coccinea is native to tropical and subtropical regions of Africa and Asia. It is widely distributed in countries such as India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and parts of Africa.

WHY IS IT GREEN? Like most plants, Emilia coccinea appears green due to the presence of chlorophyll in its leaves. Chlorophyll is a pigment that absorbs sunlight and plays a vital role in photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert sunlight into energy and produce oxygen.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Emilia coccinea is considered to have a minimal environmental impact. It is an adaptable and non-invasive species that does not pose a threat to native ecosystems. However, as with any cultivated plant, it is important to prevent the escape of Emilia coccinea from cultivation to avoid potential negative impacts on natural habitats.

FUN FACT: The vibrant scarlet flowers of Emilia coccinea attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies, making it a valuable plant for supporting pollinator populations.

Further Reading:

  • "Medicinal Plants of India: An Encyclopedia" by C.P. Khare

  • "Traditional Uses of Emilia coccinea (L.) Wettst. (Compositae) in Tanzania" by Bernard R. Mtokambali

  • "Flowers of India: Emilia coccinea" (www.flowersofindia.net)