Taxonomic Characteristics and Phytochemical Constituents of Asystasiagangetica (L.) T. Anderson, a Member of Acanthaceae

This study examined the taxonomic characteristics of Asystasiagangetica; a perennial herb characterized by its trailing to erect habit and as a result, roots from the nodes. It is glabrous and grows up to 80±20 cm. There are simple leaves with petioles which are ovate in shape with opposite phyllotaxy and margins are even to slightly serrated, measuring up to 7±2 cm in length and 3±1 cm in width. The inflorescence is one-sided raceme with purplish-blue tubular flowers which is pentamerous. The fruits are dry dehiscent capsule up to 2±0.5 cm in length. The epidermal studies revealed presence of simple elongated to conical shaped multicellular trichomes and cyclocytic stomata which are amphistomatic in nature, though very scanty in adaxial foliar region. Anatomical study showcased a single layer in the epidermis. The hypodermis consists of 2 to 3 layers of collenchyma, the general cortex and pith is made of parenchyma and cuts across mid-ribs, petioles, stems, nodes and roots, occurring in similar locations except that the number of layers of cells are not the same and vascular bundle is open type. The phytochemical study revealed that the following secondary metabolites are present: alkaloids, saponins and cardiac glycosides while steroidal aglycones, not observed. This information here would assist for further delimitation of the species.