I find this kind of small purplish-red clusters of flower bracts in our public garden below. They are called Gomphrena globosa (千日紅/百日紅/老來驕), commonly known as Globe Amaranth or Bachelor Button. It is an annual plant that grows up to 24 inches in height. The true species has magenta bracts (紫色苞葉). Tiny white flowers grow out of these bracts (see the photos here).Its native is in Brazil, Panama and Guatemala.
In Trinidad the flowers are boiled to make a tea which is used for baby gripe, oliguria, cough and diabetes.
In Hawaii, it is commonly used in long-lasting leis since it retains its shape and color after drying.
This flower is used to make a garland for Brother's Day in Nepal. The garland is put around the brother's neck by their sister for Protection.
1 comment:
Very beautiful flowers, the name 老來嬌 is appropriate. We find young people always wear black whilst we oldies tend to wear pink and bright colours.
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