27. Crinum asiaticum L. AMARYLLIDACEAE

Hindi: Nagadamani, नागदामिनी

This large, bulbous herb is widely cultivated in the tropics, and as a hothouse plant in temperate regions. It is native to South and South-East Asia, including India. The seeds have a corky layer, which are adapted for dispersal by water, beside which the plant often grows. The bulbs are used medicinally as an emetic, and for biliousness and urinary complaints.

Stipple engraving of Crinum asiaticum from Redouté’s Les Liliacées, t. 348