Launaea sarmentosa

Launaea sarmentosa is a species of flowering plant in the Asteraceae family. It is commonly found in coastal areas of the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, including the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Australia, and New Zealand. The plant is known for its creeping stems and small yellow flowers.

Description

Launaea sarmentosa is a perennial herb with a creeping habit. The stems are long and slender, often rooting at the nodes. The leaves are alternate, fleshy, and have a waxy coating that helps the plant retain water in its harsh coastal environment. The flowers are small, yellow, and typically bloom in the summer months.

Habitat and Distribution

Launaea sarmentosa is a coastal species, often found growing on sandy beaches and rocky shorelines. It is tolerant of salt spray and can grow in nutrient-poor soils. The plant's distribution spans the coasts of the Indian and Pacific Oceans, with populations found in the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Australia, and New Zealand.

Uses

In traditional medicine, Launaea sarmentosa is used to treat a variety of ailments. The leaves are often used in poultices to treat skin conditions, while the roots are used to treat digestive disorders. The plant is also used in landscaping for its ability to stabilize sandy soils and its resistance to salt spray.

Conservation

While Launaea sarmentosa is not currently listed as threatened or endangered, its coastal habitat is increasingly at risk due to climate change and human activity. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting existing populations and restoring degraded habitats.

See Also

• Asteraceae
• Coastal vegetation
• Traditional medicine

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Launaea sarmentosa gallery

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  Launaea sarmentosa at Kavvaayi