Common Name: Globe Amaranth
Vernacular Name: വാടാമല്ലി
Systematic position:
Class- Magnoliopsida
Subclass- Caryophyllidae
Order- Caryophyllales
Family- Amaranthaceae
Genus- Gomphrena
Species- G. globosa
Description: The round-shaped flower inflorescences are a visually dominant feature and cultivars have been propagated to exhibit shades of magenta, purple, red, orange, white, pink, and lilac. Within the flowerheads, the true flowers are small and inconspicuous. As a tropical annual plant, G. globosa blooms continuously throughout summer and early fall. It is very heat tolerant and fairly drought resistant, but grows best in full sun and regular moisture. It is an outcrossing species that is pollinated by butterflies, bees, and other insects. Floral volatiles likely play a significant role in the reproductive success of the plant by promoting the attraction of pollinators.
Flowering and Fruiting: Summer and early fall.
Economic Importance: Besides being a charming ornamental plant, Gomphrena is reputed to have a number of beneficial health benefits. Practitioners of folk medicine claim that is has antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant, detoxifying and purifying properties.
Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gomphrena_globosa