Malvastrum coromandelianum (L.) Garcke
Vernacular name: Prickly malvastrum (Hindi: खरमाला / झाड़ी मालवी)
Species Name: Malvastrum coromandelianum (L.) Garcke
Family: Malvaceae
Habit: Annual/perennial subshrub
Stem: Erect branched 30–100 cm, stellate-hairy, cylindrical.
Leaf: Alternate, ovate-lanceolate 3–5 × 1.5–2.5 cm, petiolate, coarsely toothed, stellate pubescent on both surfaces.
Flowering: Summer–monsoon
Flowers: Axillary, solitary/cymose; epicalyx (3 linear bracts 5–6 mm), 5 green sepals (ovate 7–9 mm, acuminate), 5 pale yellow-orange petals (obovate 8–12 mm), monadelphous stamens (anthers reniform), superior ovary (10–12 carpels).
Fruit: Schizocarp 7 mm diameter, 10–12 mericarps (each with a dorsal spine 0.5–1 mm, 2 lateral spines, stellate-hairy).
Uses:
- Leaf decoction serves as anti-inflammatory and wound healer in tribal medicine.
- Root paste treats scabies and skin infections traditionally.
- Roadside remedy plant; sugar cane companion weed; “false mallow” lookalike.
