Morpho-Taxonomic Study Based on Wild Weed Plant Species <i>Calotropis procera</i> (Aiton)—Whole Plant

Abstract

This work is an attempt to make a taxonomic study on Calotropis procera plant in Tehama area, Al-Baha region of Saudi Arabia. Al-Baha Province is divided by huge and steep Rocky Mountains into two main sectors, a lowland coastal plain at the west, known as “Tihama” and a mountainous area with an elevation of (1500) to (2450) m above sea level at the east, known as “Al-Sarat or Al-Sarah” which form a part of Al-Sarawat Mountains range. The study included a scientific description of the family Apocynaceae and the scientific classification of the species Calotropis procera . Botanical names, synonyms and vernacular names (Local names) were presented. Botanical description is determined depending on its vegetative, floral and fruit characteristics. Notes on habitats and distribution were provided. The plant species has been illustrated by photos in its habitat. Chemical components, medicinal properties and local uses were included. The study revealed that Calotropis procera is widely spread throughout the study area and it has great medicinal importance, so it requires more comprehensive studies for identification. The study aims to: (Number one is deleted). 1) Determine the distribution and habits of the species Calotropis procera . 2) Provide medicinal properties and local uses of Calotropis procera . The method was recorded due to Dr. Jacob Thomas, Herbarium Dept., College of Science, King Saud University. Authors recommend recent accurate techniques such as DNA fingerprinting to identify the species. More Biochemical studies on the effective chemical compounds are required for the medicinal importance of the plant.