ShrubCultivatedPerennialMedicinal

Tarlmounia elliptica (DC.) H.Rob., S.C.Keeley, Skvarla &R.Chan

Parda Bail · Bombay Creeper

Synonym: Vernonia elliptica DC

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Description

Tarlmounia elliptica is a perennial woody climber or scandent shrub with slender twining branches. Leaves are alternate, elliptic to ovate, simple, and shortly petiolate, with entire to slightly toothed margins and pointed apices. Flower heads are small, purple to lavender, and arranged in terminal or axillary corymbose clusters. Each capitulum contains only tubular florets. Fruits are narrow ribbed achenes crowned with a persistent white pappus.

Diagnostic Characters

Vegetative

Woody climbing habit with alternate elliptic leaves.

Floral

Clusters of small purple flower heads composed entirely of tubular florets.

Fruit & Seed

Ribbed achenes with a persistent white pappus.

Distribution

Native range: South and Southeast Asia.

In Pakistan: Occurs in northern and northeastern Pakistan, especially in subtropical forest regions.

Phenology

Flowering

Fruiting

Flowering: August–November Fruiting: September–December

Ethnobotany & Uses

Uses

Traditionally used in local medicine for treating fever, inflammation, and skin disorders. Provides nectar for butterflies and other pollinating insects. Occasionally cultivated as an ornamental climber.

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Where it grows on campus

South Campus1

individuals mapped across 1 zone

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Taxonomic Notes

This species was formerly placed in the genus Vernonia as Vernonia elliptica. Modern phylogenetic studies support its placement in the genus Tarlmounia. It is distinguished by its climbing habit, elliptic leaves, and clusters of purple tubular florets. The accepted name follows Flora of Pakistan, Plants of the World Online (POWO), and World Flora Online (WFO).