Flora of Bangladesh

Bishkatali or Pale persicaria ( Persicaria lapathifolia , family: Polygonaceae) is an annual herb attaining a height of 1-2.5 m. The plant is found throughout the tropical world. It is a very common weed in Bangladesh. It mostly grows on lowland and on the edge of ponds and canals. Common names: Bishkatali, Pale Persicaria. Leaves are green, glabrous, ovate-oblong, 7-18 cm and 5-8 cm wide, apex, acute, bottom part whitish, petiole 6-8 cm long.  Stem, leaf and inflorescence of persicaria orientalis are covered with dense hair.  Numerous small flowers grow on terminal inflorescence. The plant is propagated by seeds.  Leaves and roots are used to relieve physical pain. 

Onontolota or Coral vine ( Antigonon leptopus , family: Polygonaceae) is a tuberous rooted extensive perennial creeper with branches. Its original home is America (possibly Mexico & Guatemala). For its extra-ordinary pink flowers, it is planted in parks and gardens throughout the tropical areas of the world.                                             Common names:   Coral vine,  Mexican creeper. Leaves are pale green, alternate, cordate, 7-12 cm long, serrated, apex acute.  Its propagation is caused by cutting or ground layering. The adorable creeper is planted in garden and on arches or pergolas in Bangladesh.  Pink or white colored flowers rise from axillary raceme. Perianth segments 5, divided into two layers. The plant produces numerous flowers from April-November.  The fruit is small, triangle-shaped, brown in...