Chethikoduveli (Plumbago indica)

Plumbago indica, commonly known as blue plumbago or sky flower, is a perennial flowering shrub that is native to South Africa but has been widely cultivated and naturalized in tropical and subtropical regions around the world. It is a popular ornamental plant that is prized for its stunning blue flowers and attractive, glossy green leaves.

Blue plumbago typically grows to a height of 3-6 feet (1-2 meters) and a spread of 4-8 feet (1.5-2.5 meters), with a dense, bushy habit. The leaves are oval or lance-shaped, and grow to around 2-3 inches (5-8 cm) long. They are glossy green and arranged alternately along the stems.

The flowers of blue plumbago are its most striking feature. They are borne in loose, branching clusters at the ends of the stems, and are a bright, sky blue color. Each flower has five petals that are fused at the base, giving the flower a distinctive funnel-like shape. The flowers bloom throughout the year in warm climates, but are more prolific in the summer and fall.

Blue plumbago is a relatively low-maintenance plant that prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. It is drought-tolerant and can survive extended periods of dry weather, but it benefits from regular watering during hot, dry periods. The plant can be propagated from stem cuttings or by division, and benefits from regular pruning to maintain its shape and promote bushier growth.

In addition to its ornamental value, blue plumbago has been used in traditional medicine for a variety of ailments, including fever, cough, and skin conditions. It contains several bioactive compounds, including alkaloids and flavonoids, that are believed to have medicinal properties. However, it should be noted that the plant can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.