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Java aerva

Scientific Name: Aerva javanica

Family: Amaranthaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Java Aerva (Aerva javanica)

The Java Aerva, scientifically known as Aerva javanica, is a plant species with a wide distribution. It is also known by several other common names.

Considerations for Pets

  • Several common names reference the plant's cotton-like appearance, such as "kapok bush" and "pillow bush," which might be attractive to pets.

Considerations for Children

  • Similar to the considerations for pets, children might be drawn to the plant due to its soft, cotton-like appearance, reflected in common names like "kapok bush" and "pillow bush."

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

  • Scientific Name: Aerva javanica (Burm. f.) Juss. ex Schult.
  • Family: Amaranthaceae
  • Synonym: Aerva tomentosa Forssk.
  • Symbol: AERVA

Common Names

  • Java aerva
  • Kapok bush
  • Kapokbush
  • Pillow bush
  • Snow bush
  • Desert cotton
  • Pillow-weed

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to much of Africa, including Madagascar.
  • Also found in Sri Lanka, Indo-China, Malaysia (Sumatra, Bangka, Java, the Philippines), Arabia, and other islands.
  • Introduced in Java and naturalized in the eastern part of Malesia.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Prefers bright places with direct sunlight.
  • Grown in apartments or outdoors.
  • Stems and leaves reproduce quickly in spring.
  • Aerva sanguinolenta, a related species, can be an erect or clambering herb with branched stems.

Related Species

  • Aerva lanata
  • Aerva sanguinolenta
  • Aerva persica

Traditional Uses

  • Historically cultivated in India, Ceylon, Arabia, Tropical Africa, and Java.
  • Aerva lanata is officially recognized in Indian medical literature.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Aerva lanata extract has exhibited antibacterial activity against streptococcus.

Further Information

  • Encyclopedia of Life
  • Integrated Taxonomic Information System (TSN 506580)
  • Prelude Medicinal Plants Database
  • The Plant List