What is kalijiri?

Kalijiri (_Clerodendrum paniculatum L._), also known as the pagoda flower, is a flowering shrub native to India and widely cultivated in tropical regions worldwide. It belongs to the family Lamiaceae.

Characteristics:

- Growth habit: Kalijiri is a fast-growing, semi-evergreen shrub that can reach heights of up to 4-6 meters (13-20 feet).

- Leaves: The leaves are opposite, ovate to elliptic, and have serrated margins. They can grow up to 15 centimeters (6 inches) in length.

- Flowers: This species is known for its attractive flowers. The inflorescence is a terminal, branched panicle that can be quite large and showy. The individual flowers are small, tubular, and bloom in shades of white to pale purple. Each flower has five petals that curl backward, giving it a star-shaped appearance.

- Fruits: After flowering, the plant produces small, black, shiny berries that are about 5-7 millimeters in diameter. These berries are eaten by birds, which helps disperse the seeds.

Uses:

- Ornamental: Kalijiri is primarily grown as an ornamental plant due to its attractive flowers. It is commonly used in gardens, parks, and landscapes.

- Traditional medicine: In some traditional medicine systems, parts of the plant, including the leaves, roots, and bark, are used for their medicinal properties. However, it's important to note that the use of kalijiri for medicinal purposes should be done with caution and under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, as it may have potential side effects.

It's worth mentioning that the common name "kalijiri" may also be used to refer to other related species of plants in the genus _Clerodendrum_, so it's always best to verify the scientific name when referring to a specific plant.