Asystasia gangetica, beyond its Widespread Distribution Recorded in Two Indonesian Herbaria Since 1863: A Nuisance or A Blessing?

Abstract

In the world of botanical diversity, some plants manage to find their niche through adaptability and widespread distribution. Asystasia gangetica, one of those versatile species, has established itself in various ecosystems worldwide. Based on specimen collections of the Herbarium Bogoriense and the Herbarium Anda, we investigated the global distribution of this plant by highlighting its characteristics, ecological adaptability, significance, implications, and potential benefits. This study showed that A. gangetica had flourished in Malaysia in 1863, 30 years before it had in Indonesia, refuting the popular belief that it had been introduced to the country in 1876. Furthermore, given the two A. gangetica subspecies differ in phenotype and genotype, we propose that they should be considered distinct species. So, the subsp. gangetica, native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia and is synonymous with Asystasia coromandeliana, should be named Asystasia gangetica, while the subsp. micrantha, native to Africa and the Arabian Peninsula and is synonymous with Asystasia intrusa, should be named Asystasia micrantha. This study confirmed that A. micrantha is more invasive than A. gangetica. Both plants, however, exhibit advantageous qualities beneficial to humans. As a cover crop, it is useful for conservation efforts. As a food source, it is nutritious for humans and animals. As a bioactive compound source, it can be developed into novel drugs. Its beneficial properties imply that this plant is intended to benefit humans and animals, even though its invasiveness needs to be monitored and regulated. Thus, we believe its advantages outweigh its drawbacks.