Morphological and Microscopic Studies of Aerial Parts of Ceylon Leadwort

Plumbago zeylanica Linn. is a perennial shrub comes under the category of Angiosperm commonly known as Ceylon leadwort belonging to family Plumbaginaceae. In Indian System of Medicine i.e. Ayurveda, Plumbago (Chitrakmool) used as ingredient in various formulations as an effective appetizer, anti-inflammatory and aids in digestion by stimulating gastric secretions. The present investigation deals with morphology and microscopy of aerial parts of Ceylon leadwort. Morphological study of glandular trichomes of fruits revealed the insect attracting property of plant. Microscopic study of leaves, fruit, stem and seed shows identifying characteristics which are helpful in further standardization of this plant.