Taxonomical enumeration of traditional, socio-economic importance plant of Dharbai

Abstract

The grass family, Poaceae, which encompasses over 11,500 species, is considered among the most significant flowering plants globally. The traditional Dharbai grass, Desmostachya bipinnata, is of religious and socio-economic importance, commonly used in Hindu rituals and as a natural disinfectant. However, its resemblance to Chrysopogon zizanioides and Saccharum spontaneum poses challenges in identification. This paper aims to distinguish between these species through a detailed examination of their morphological and anatomical features. Specimens of Chrysopogon zizanioides and Saccharum spontaneum were collected from Thiruppanandal, Kumbakonam district, Tamil Nadu, India. Both morphological and microscopic examinations were conducted using stereomicroscopes and light microscopes to analyze leaf, stem, root, and inflorescence structures. In terms of reproductive features, three anthers and two feathery stigmas are observed, with an oblong-shaped ovary. In anatomical observations of the leaf cross-section, a single-layer epidermis, hypodermis with sclerenchyma cells, and vascular bundles with phloem and xylem are identified. The culm cross-section shows epidermis, sclerenchyma hypodermis, and apith made of parenchyma. The root cross-section displays distinct layers including epidermis, exodermis, and a central core of xylem and phloem. Traditionally, Chrysopogon zizanioides is utilized for various ailments, including kidney stones and respiratory issues, and features in religious customs. These observations and descriptions of Chrysopogon zizanioides are detailed below, Dense, aromatic roots with erect culms 1–2.5 m tall. Leaf blades are linear and stiff, with jagged margins. The inflorescence is an oblong panicle with spikelet pairs. The structure is similar to S. spontaneum but is distinct in certain vascular arrangements and the presence of amyloplasts in pith cells. Morphological and anatomical features can adequately differentiate Desmostachya bipinnata, Chrysopogon zizanioides, and Saccharum spontaneum. While the three share some common traits, there are notable distinctions. For example, C. zizanioides is characterized by a dense aromatic root, whereas S. spontaneum is distinguished by its serrated leaf margins. The distinct characteristics of the traditional plant Desmostachya bipinnata (Dharbai) have been validated through morphological and anatomical evaluation. This confirmation is crucial for preserving its socio-economic significance and uses in traditional practices.