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Justicia
Justicia procumbens
γγγγγγ΄
A small annual herb commonly found along roadsides and grasslands. From summer to autumn, it bears pale reddish-purple bilabiate flowers in spike-like inflorescences. The Japanese name alludes to the resemblance of the flower spike to a fox's grandchild.
Identification Points
- βSmall bilabiate flowers densely arranged in spike-like inflorescences
- βFlowers pale reddish-purple, divided into upper and lower lips
- βLeaves opposite, ovate with entire margins
Habitat
Roadsides, grasslands, and paddy field ridges
Season
AugustβOctober (flowers)
Morphological TraitsAI-estimated, needs verification
Leaf arrangement
Opposite
Leaf type
Simple
Venation
Pinnate
Leaf margin
Entire
Leaf shape
Ovate
Growth form
Herb
Petal count
5 petals
Petal fusion
Fused
Flower color
Purple
Habitat
Roadside
Ovary position
Superior
Plant sex
Hermaphrodite
Phylogenetic Positionγγγγγγ΄η§ β
Phylogenetic Position
Angiosperms > Eudicots > Core eudicots > Lamiales > Acanthaceae
Divergence Era
Paleogene to Neogene
Evolution Notes
Acanthaceae belongs to Lamiales; the intricate pollination mutualism between bilabiate flowers and insects has supported the family's success.
View on evolution timeline βSources & References
AI-generated, needs verification