Herb's Introduction
Muehlenbeckia platyclados, commonly known as the Tapeworm Plant, Ribbon Bush, or Centipede Plant, is a truly unique and fascinating species belonging to the Polygonaceae family, which also includes buckwheat and knotweed. Native to New Guinea and the Solomon Islands, this plant is an erect, shrubby perennial that can grow up to 12 feet in its natural habitat, but typically reaches 3-4 feet when cultivated in pots. Its most striking feature is its broad, flat, and jointed stems, which are a modified type of stem called a phylloclade. These ribbon-like structures are the primary photosynthetic organs of the plant, giving it a distinctive two-dimensional appearance that has earned it its peculiar common names. While some plants are almost entirely leafless, others may produce small, arrow-shaped leaves that are often short-lived. In spring, it may produce tiny, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers in clusters along the joints of its stems, followed by nuts enclosed in a fleshy, deep red or purplish perianth.
Name in Different Countries
Common Name (English): Tapeworm Plant, Ribbon Bush, Centipede Plant. These names directly refer to its flattened, segmented stems. Chinese: 竹节蓼 (zhú jié liǎo), which translates to "bamboo knotweed," a name that aptly describes its segmented, bamboo-like appearance. Finnish: Nauhapensas, meaning "ribbon bush." French: Muehlenbeckie à rameaux aplatis, which translates to "Muehlenbeckia with flattened branches."
Terminology
Phylloclade: This is the most important term for understanding this plant's unique appearance. A phylloclade is a modified stem that is flattened and takes on the function of a leaf, including photosynthesis. In Muehlenbeckia platyclados, these phylloclades are ribbon-like, jointed, and delicately striated. Ochreae: In the Polygonaceae family, this refers to the sheath-like stipules that surround the stem at the base of the leaf stalk. In this plant, they are small, ovate, and short-lived. Perianth: The outer part of a flower, consisting of the calyx (sepals) and corolla (petals). In Muehlenbeckia platyclados, the perianth is greenish and later becomes fleshy, deep red, or purplish, enclosing the fruit. Articulate: Meaning jointed or segmented, which describes the characteristic appearance of the plant's stems.
Availability
Muehlenbeckia platyclados is primarily available as an ornamental houseplant or a garden shrub in tropical and subtropical regions. It has been naturalized in various parts of the world beyond its native range, including Puerto Rico, India, Bolivia, Madagascar, Nicaragua, and Pakistan. It is often sold in nurseries and online plant stores, particularly for those who collect unusual and exotic plants. Due to its unique appearance and ease of care, it is a popular choice for indoor container gardening and is sometimes used as an annual in cooler climates.
External Look
The external appearance of Muehlenbeckia platyclados is its defining characteristic. The plant is an erect, shrubby species with a sprawling habit. The most prominent features are the phylloclades, which are broad, flat, and thin, resembling green ribbons or centipede bodies. These segments are jointed, and from the nodes, tiny, often short-lived, arrow-shaped leaves may emerge. The plant's overall color is a vibrant green. When it blooms, small, inconspicuous greenish-white flowers appear in clusters at the joints. These flowers are not the main visual attraction, but they can be followed by small, decorative, fleshy, red or purplish fruits that enclose the nuts.
Healing Properties
Muehlenbeckia platyclados has been traditionally used in folk medicine for various purposes, and modern scientific studies have begun to investigate some of these claims. Anti-inflammatory and Antinociceptive (Pain-Relieving): Research has shown that extracts from the leaves of this plant exhibit significant anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects in animal models. The extract has been found to reduce paw edema and decrease the migration of leukocytes, which are key indicators of inflammation. Antioxidant: Studies on the root extracts of the plant have demonstrated high antioxidant activity, which helps to combat oxidative stress in the body, a factor in many chronic diseases. Anti-ulcerogenic: The plant's extracts have shown potential in inhibiting enzymes associated with ulcers, such as H+K+ATPase, suggesting a possible role in anti-ulcer treatments. Anticonvulsant: Ethanolic extracts from the aerial parts of the plant have been found to have anticonvulsant properties in animal studies, possibly by elevating brain GABA content. Other Traditional Uses: In various folk medicine traditions, it has been used as a diuretic, hypotensive, antihemorrhagic, sedative, and to treat rheumatism, skin swellings, and insect bites. It is also noted as a remedy for animal poisoning in some regions.
Advantages
Unique Aesthetic: The plant's bizarre and architectural form makes it a standout ornamental plant for both indoor and outdoor settings. It provides a striking contrast to more traditional leafy plants. Low Maintenance: Once established, the Tapeworm Plant is relatively drought-tolerant and can thrive on minimal care, making it an excellent choice for novice gardeners or those with busy lifestyles. It is also generally pest and disease-resistant. Fast Growth: It has a relatively fast growth rate, allowing it to quickly fill out a space or container. Versatility: It can be used as a ground cover, a container plant, or a climbing plant with support. Its trailing habit also makes it ideal for hanging baskets. Ecological Benefits: In certain regions, it can be used for erosion control on slopes and banks. The flowers attract pollinators, and the fruits can be a food source for birds and other wildlife.
Uses
Ornamental: This is its most common use. It is a prized oddity among plant collectors and is used in landscaping for its unique form. It works well in rock gardens, as a border plant, or in containers both indoors and outdoors. Medicinal: As detailed in the "Healing Properties" section, the plant has a wide range of traditional and scientifically-investigated medicinal uses. It has been used for its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, antioxidant, and anti-ulcer properties. Veterinary: It is noted in some folk traditions as a remedy for animal poisoning. Erosion Control: Its fast growth and spreading habit make it suitable for stabilizing soil on slopes.
Using Way
As an Ornamental Plant: Growing Medium: Plant in a well-draining soil mix, preferably a sandy or loamy type. Light: It thrives in full sun to partial shade. Indoors, place it near a window with bright, indirect light. It can also do well under grow lights. Watering: Water regularly until the plant is established. Once mature, it is quite drought-tolerant, so allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Pruning: Prune regularly to maintain the desired size and shape. This encourages new, fuller growth. Propagation: It is easily propagated from stem cuttings. Simply snip a few healthy stems and place them in moist soil, where they will readily root. As a Medicinal Herb: Important Note: The information provided here is for informational purposes only and is based on traditional and scientific studies. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional or a qualified herbalist before using any plant for medicinal purposes. Preparation: The leaves and roots are the parts primarily used in traditional remedies. They are often prepared as extracts, decoctions, or tinctures. For external use, a poultice or alcoholic extract may be applied to the skin.
Conclusion
Muehlenbeckia platyclados is a fascinating and multifaceted plant. While its striking appearance as an ornamental plant has made it a popular choice for plant enthusiasts, its history in folk medicine and the growing body of scientific research highlight its significant healing potential. With its low-maintenance nature, unique look, and a surprising array of traditional uses, the Tapeworm Plant is a testament to the diverse and often unexpected wonders of the plant kingdom. Its future as both a curious houseplant and a subject of further pharmacological investigation is promising, making it a truly remarkable species worth knowing.
