နွယ်ပြာစန်း

Myanmar Name – Nwepyarsan

Common Name – Blue skyflower

Botanical Name – Thunbergia grandiflora (Roxb. ex Rottler) Roxb.

Family Name – Acanthaceae

Habitat – Native to China, India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Indochina and Myanmar

Habit – Perennial vine. It can reach a height of 15-20 meters (50-65 feet) when given adequate support. The plant is known for its vigorous growth and dense foliage.

Stem – Typically, light brown or greenish-brown and can be slightly rough.

Leaves – simple, opposite, and broadly ovate to heart-shaped. They measure about 10-20 cm (4-8 inches) in length and 8-15 cm (3-6 inches) in width. The leaf surface is dark green and glabrous (smooth), with a slightly serrated margin. The venation is prominent and palmate.

Inflorescence – A pendulous raceme, which means the flowers are arranged along a central axis that droops down.

Flower – Large, showy, and trumpet-shaped. They are typically blue to violet with a yellowish throat, although white-flowered forms exist. Each flower measures about 5-8 cm (2-3 inches) in diameter.

Fruit &Seed – A capsule, which is initially green and turns brown as it matures. The capsule is somewhat woody and can be up to 2.5 cm (1 inch) long. When mature, it splits open to release seeds. The seeds are small, flat, and round.

Flowering and Fruiting Time – Flowering time from April to October and fruiting time from November to January.

Usage – Used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive and vibrant flowers. It is often grown on trellises, arbors, fences, and pergolas, where it can create a stunning visual display.