DOI: 10.36347/sajb.2021.v09i03.002

Pages: 63-67

Ageratum conyzoides is a common weed of the Niger Delta tropical and semi tropical regions useful in tradomedicine. This research investigated the taxonomic characteristics of the plant. The stem is erect, sometimes prostrate, branched and hairy. The petiolate leaves are simple ovate with opposite phyllotaxy having serrated margins measuring up to 10±2cm long and 7±2cm wide, growing to 80±15cm in height, with an acute apex. The inflorescence is terminal axillary cluster with whitish to pale bluish tubular florets. Epidermal study revealed anomocytic stomata which is amphistomatic in nature. Anatomical study showed a layer of epidermal cells. The hypodermis is made of 2 to 3 rolls of collenchyma, general cortex and pith dominated by parenchyma in the same pattern of occurrence in mid-ribs, petioles, stems, nodes and roots except that the number of rolls of cells varied slightly and vasculation is open type. There are presence of crystals and tanniferous cells. Proximate investigation revealed 81.45±0.12% moisture, 0.65±0.2% ash, 3.70±0.11% lipid, 4.42±0.04% proteins, 3.10±0.09% carbohydrate and 6.68±0.01% fiber respectively. The information generated here would further assist in the delimitation of the species.