blue porterweed

one of my neighbours, a dedicated gardener, has this plant growing in a pot hanging from the parapet along the corridor. in the nearby bukit panjang park 5, there are quite a few of these planted by some retirees and they are now flourishing very well on their own.

the blue porterweed is also known by the name blue rat's tail. the information board at the fort canning's spice garden lists the medicinal values of this plant in two different places - west africa and brazil.

"it is effective for gastric and liver problems, colds and asthma. it is used as a stomach tonic to stimulate the function of the gastrointestinal tract. it can be used as a natural antihistamine and an anti-inflammatory remedy.

the blue porterweed plant has a fast rate of growth. it thrives in full sun to light shade. it has excellent drought tolerance. the flowers of this plant attract butterflies and hummingbirds.