
Plumbago spp. is an important group of medicinal plants belonging to the family Plumbaginaceae, widely used in traditional systems of medicine such as Ayurveda and Unani. The roots are the primary economic and therapeutic parts, containing key bioactive compounds like plumbagin, sitosterol and pelargonidin, which exhibit diverse pharmacological activities including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and cytotoxic effects. Among the major species, Plumbago rosea, Plumbago zeylanica and Plumbago auriculata are widely recognized for their medicinal and ornamental significance. The plant is used in the treatment of various ailments such as skin diseases, digestive disorders, respiratory conditions, and metabolic imbalances. Cultivation of Plumbago requires warm, humid tropical to subtropical climates with well-drained, organic-rich soils and partial shade. Propagation is commonly carried out through semi-hardwood stem cuttings, followed by proper land preparation, nutrient management, irrigation, and intercultural operations. The crop is ready for harvest within 12?18 months, yielding about 7?10 t/ha under good management practices. Post-harvest curing is essential to reduce plumbagin toxicity. However, the crop is prone to pests like semi-loopers and diseases such as root rot and leaf spot, which require effective management strategies.