Shortleaf Globe Mallow

Glyphaea brevis

NAME: Glyphaea brevis

FAMILY: Malvaceae

COMMON NAMES: Shortleaf Globe Mallow, Compact Malva

LOCAL NAMES: Kankara (Nigeria), Dabara (Ghana), Karkadeh Aswad (Egypt)

MORPHOLOGICAL DESCRIPTION: Glyphaea brevis is a deciduous shrub that typically grows to a height of 1 to 2 meters. It features distinctive lobed leaves that are heart-shaped with serrated edges. The flowers of Glyphaea brevis are vibrant and showy, ranging in color from pale pink to deep magenta, with a prominent central column of stamens. The plant produces small, round fruits with a knobby texture, each containing multiple seeds.

USEFUL PART(s): The flowers and leaves of Glyphaea brevis are the most commonly used parts.

GENERAL USES:

  1. Traditional Medicine: The leaves and flowers are used in traditional herbal medicine to make infusions or poultices. These preparations are believed to have anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, and are used to treat various skin conditions, gastrointestinal discomfort, and respiratory issues.

  2. Culinary Uses: In some regions, the flowers are used to make teas, syrups, or jams. The petals add color and flavor to dishes, and the tea is rich in antioxidants.

  3. Textile Industry: The inner bark of the plant's stems can be processed to yield strong fibers that are used in weaving and making traditional crafts.

GEOGRAPHIC DISTRIBUTION: Glyphaea brevis is native to sub-Saharan Africa and can be found in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Mali, Sudan, and Egypt. It thrives in diverse habitats, including savannas, grasslands, and open woodlands.

WHY IS IT GREEN? Like other plants, Glyphaea brevis is green due to the presence of chlorophyll in its cells. Chlorophyll is a pigment that plays a vital role in photosynthesis, the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy (sugars) using carbon dioxide and water.

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Glyphaea brevis has relatively low environmental impact and can even contribute positively to its ecosystem by providing habitat and food for various insects and animals. It may also help prevent soil erosion due to its root system and can play a role in nitrogen fixation, enriching the soil.

FUN FACT: In some cultures, the vibrant flowers of Glyphaea brevis are used to make natural dyes for coloring fabrics and materials.

Further Reading:

  • "Medicinal Plants of Nigeria" by Tolu Odugbemi

  • "A Field Guide to the Common Trees and Shrubs of Africa" by Aluka (Project)

  • "Traditional Medicinal Plants and Malaria" by Merlin