Category: Eco Park
This photograph, taken at the Sanjeevi Malai Eco Park area, captures Sphaeranthus indicus, commonly known as East Indian Globe Thistle or Gorakhmundi. Belonging to the Asteraceae (sunflower) family, this small but significant herb is a familiar sight in open landscapes across Tamil Nadu.
Sphaeranthus indicus is a small, aromatic, spreading annual herb that typically grows between 30 and 60 centimetres tall. Its narrow, slightly toothed leaves release a strong scent when crushed. The most striking feature of the plant is its small, globe-shaped flower heads, usually purple or pink in colour, which bloom mainly during and after the monsoon season.
Native to India and widely distributed across tropical Asia, this plant thrives in open grasslands, wetlands, agricultural fields, and roadside areas. It adapts well to both dry and semi-moist regions and is frequently seen in and around Rajapalayam.
Beyond its botanical appeal, Sphaeranthus indicus holds an important place in traditional medicine. In Ayurveda and Siddha systems, the whole plant – including its roots, stems, and flowers – is used for treating skin diseases, supporting liver health, aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, and promoting nervous system well-being.
Ecologically, the plant plays a valuable role in supporting biodiversity. Its flowers attract bees and butterflies, providing an important nectar source during the flowering season and helping sustain pollinator populations in grassland ecosystems. Though modest in size, Sphaeranthus indicus reflects the rich medicinal and ecological heritage of the Sanjeevi Malai landscape.
