Wildflower series ~ Miniature Morning Glory

A small creeper belonging to the Convolvulacea or morning glory family, Xenostegia tridentata subsp. angustifolia is another plant that needs to be photographed in the morning or midday because the flowers close in the afternoon. The latin name angustifolia refers to the slender leaves which are unlike other morning glories although the flower is typical. The flower has two variants: some have a dark purple centre and others are plain yellow, like the one above.

This plant is widespread in Africa and has a variety of different medicinal uses in different areas although in Southern Africa, it is used to treat stomach conditions. The plant contains compounds that have been shown to have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects.