Sleepy Morning

  • Title

    Sleepy Morning

  • Author(s)

    Ethan H. Freid

  • Scientific Name

    Waltheria indica L.

  • Description

    Common Names

    Sleepy Morning

    Family

    Sterculiaceae

    Habit

    Waltheria indica grows as an herbaceous perennial to 2 meters in height. The leaves are arranged alternately, to 8 cm in length, ovate to oblong, with a serrate leaf margin and obtuse leaf apex. The entire plant surface is covered with stellate tomentose hairs giving the leaves a grayish-green appearance.

    The actinomorphic flowers are arranged in dense axillary and terminal racemes with each flower subtended by a bract. The calyx has 5 fused, green sepals. The corolla has 5 unfused yellow petals. There are 5 stamens fused at their base. The ovary is superior with a single locule and numerous seeds. The fruit is a follicle at maturity.

    Habitat

    Waltheria indica grows in human-disturbed habitats (fields, yards, roadsides) in a sand substrate.

    Distribution in Bahamas/Globally

    Waltheria indica occurs on all island groupings within the Bahamian Archipelago.

    Medicinal/Cultural/Economic usage

    Waltheria indica is not used medicinally in the Bahamas. It is used elsewhere in Caribbean for treating colds as well as a soothing drink.