Spunica

Spunica is a genus of flowering plants in the family Acanthaceae, which is commonly known as the acanthus family. The genus is native to tropical Africa and Madagascar. There are six accepted species within the genus.

The plants in the Spunica genus are annuals or perennials, with upright stems that grow from 0.6 to 1.5 meters in height. The leaves are ovate or lance-shaped, with pointed tips and smooth edges. The flowers are tubular in shape, with a crown of lobes and a spur. They are typically blue or purple in color, with a white or yellow center.

Spunica species are found in a variety of habitats, including wetlands, grasslands, and dry forests. They are often found growing in clusters, with multiple stems arising from a single base.

The genus Spunica is often confused with the related genus Justicia, due to similarities in flower shape and color. However, Spunica species are characterized by their lack of long hairs on the stems and leaves, and their unique leaf shape.

Spunica is not a widely cultivated genus, and little information is available on their use or potential applications. Further research is needed to fully understand the characteristics and properties of these plants.

No species of Spunica are considered to be endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).