Convolvulaceae

Bindweed or Morning Glory Family

Cuscuta reflexa Roxb.

Giant Dodder

Nepali: Aakaashe or Amar Bel

Amar Bel is a fast-growing parasitic plant that can quickly cover whole trees. It is also called Devil's hair for its ability to grow quickly and conquer the host plant. The cream-colored flowers are small and fleshy attaching directly to the stem. The stems intertwine tightly to eventually kill the host. The seeds can remain dormant for up to five years. It is also a transmitter of two viruses - Citrus mosaic and Purple blotch. Medicinal uses include treatment for jaundice, as a paste applied to the skin to treat rheumatism and headaches, treatment of urination disorders, muscle pain, cough, and blood purifier. The seeds are used as an anthelmintic and carminative.

Dinetus grandiflorus (Wall.) Staples

Forest Morning Glory

Nepali: Aakaashvelee or Chamero Laharo

Forest Morning Glory was flowering in August on the road at about 2600m - not far from the upper pond. It is a climber with clusters of attractive pink to purple trumpet-shaped flowers at the ends of long stems. There are many large heart-shaped leaves along the stems. It is found in Eastern Himalayas Nepal and Bhutan.