Taxus wallichiana Zucc. (= Taxus baccata L.)
Subdivision : Gymnospermae
Order: Coniferae
Family: Taxaceae
Vern.: Common Yew
Distribution:
INDIA: Himalayas, Meghalaya Naga hills, Manipur.
MYANMAR, AFGANISTAN, South West CHINA, VIETNAM.
Habitat:
Found in the evergreen and coniferous forests, at an altitude of 2300-3700 m. Slow growing, lives up to 2000 yrs.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. It is used for topiary work, also used for making bows and various other material. Since the growth of the plant is very slow, there is a rapid decline of the population.
Description:
Tree, dioecious, 6 m high; stem futed; bark thin, reddish brown; branchlets spreading. Leaves linear, 2-3.8 x 0.3 cm, coriaceous, flattened, arranged in two vertical opposite rows, dark grey glossy green above, paler beneath. Cones axillary, sessile, male and female cone on separate trees. Male cone solitary, axillary, sub-globose, bracts empty; stamens 10. Female cone solitary, few imbricate scales around an erect ovule; ovule surrounded at base by membranous cup shaped disc. Disc in fruit bright red, succulent, enlarged; 7-8 mm. Seeds olive green.
Parts used commercially:
Used as hedge, also used in topiary in Europe. In Britain it has been used for making bows and for archery sports.
In Ladakh the bark is used in place of tea. It also used for ploughs and axils of carts. The wood is strong and elastic
All parts of the plant are highly poisonous except the scarlet aril. Poisioning results in gastroenteritis, heart and respiratory failure. Sometimes death occurs within 5 minutes.
Commercial / EXIM data:
During 2001, 100 kg of dry leaves of Taxus wallichiana has been exported to Italy (CITES permit no. A 1724).
Offence case detected at Chennai Sea port on 27.04.01 for attempt to transport/export 2 kg of Taxus wallichiana to Srinivasan Temple, Singapore which violates CITES, EXIM Policy & WL (P) Act, 1972.
Legal status:
1. Included in the Red Data Book of Indian Plants.
2. Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Cycas circinnalis L.
Subdivision: Gymnospermae
Order: Cycadales
Family: Cycadaceae
Vern.: Crozier Cycas
Distribution:
INDIA: Western peninsular India. Stunted variety with narrower leaflets is found around Bangalore, but is not common.
SRI LANKA, MALDIVES, near MALA, E. tropical AFRICA, MALAGASY, COMORO ISLANDS, SUMATRA, JAVA.
Habitat:
Found in deciduous forests of the Western Ghats from sea level to 3500' from malabar southwards to hills on the east side as far north as Orissa. Fl.: February - March; Fr.: August - October.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. Collected for its attractive fronds. The specific name refers to the circinate variation in young foliage. The plant looks more graceful as compared to the cultivated C. revluta.
Description:
Palm like tree, 40-80 m high; trunk cylindrical, rarely forked, with crown of pinnate leaves with compact woody bases of petioles; bark brown, with diamond shaped scars of fallen leaves, smooth below; petiole 0.4-0.6 m long, with short spines; leaflets 80-100 pairs, alternate, 15-30 x 0.7-1.2 cm, margins flat. Male cone 7.6 cm dia., peduncle ca 33 cm long, microsporoohyll 3.5-5 x 1.2-2 cm, ovate-deltoid, prolonged into an upcurved subulate spine, brown tomentose, glabrous above. Megasporophyll 15-20 cm long; blade 6-7 x 2.5 cm, rhomboid, tapering to an acuminate point, margin crenate or spinous toothed; ovules 6-12. Seeds ovoid, 3.8 cm dia., pale reddish yellow.
Commercial / EXIM data:
Offence case registered against M/s Kem breed Plants, Kalimpong, West Bengal detected at FPO, Kolkata on 04.01.01 for attempt to transport about 9 kg of C. circinalis alongwith Musa ensete to New Zealand and 3.55 kg of Cycas seeds to UK on 04.04.02 which violates CITES as well as EXIM Policy.
Legal status:
1. Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Subdivision: Gymnospermae
Order: Cycadales
Family: Cycadaceae
Vern.: Rumphius Cycas
Distribution:
INDIA: Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Cocos Isles.
SRI LANKA, SOUTH TENNASSERIM, MALAY PENINSULA & ARCHIPELAGO, MOLUCCA, NEW GUINEA & NORTH AUSTRALIA.
Habitat:
Found in littoral forests.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. Collected for attractive fronds. Also a sago extracted from trunk and fruits are edible.
Description:
Tree, 3-7.5 m high, trunk simple or forked not swollen at base. Leaves 0.8-1.8 m dark green, glossy, petiole spiny; leaflets 50-60 pairs, 20-35 x 1.2-1.7 cm, coriaceous, margin flat, linear acute. Male cone 30.5 x 10 cm, ellipsoid-oblong, reddish tomenose, coarsely scented-microsporophylls 1.9 cm long, cuneate with a fairly long upcurved acumen. Megasporophyll ca 22.8 x 1.2 cm, blade ovato-lanceolate, densely villous, spinous toothed above, entire below; ovules in notches. Fruits ca 5 cm across, globular, orange when ripe. Seeds 5-7.6 x 2.5 cm, orange.
Parts used commercially:
Sago extracted from the trunk. Fruit is eaten in the Andamans. Poisonous when raw.
Legal status:
1. Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Subdivision: Gymnospermae
Order: Cycadales
Family: Cycadaceae
Vern.: Sago Cycas
Distribution:
INDIA: Commonly cultivated in gardens of Indian subcontinent.
South JAPAN, CHINA, TAIWAN.
Habitat:
Introduced & Cultivated
Description:
Dioecious, tree or shrub, upto 3 m, produces suckers; trunk unbranched, rarely forked, clothed with old leaf bases. Leaves 60-150 cm long; petiole quadrangular; leaflets 9-18 cm x 5 mm, sub-opposite, margin revolute. Male cones apical, cylindrical or ovoid, 8-40 cm long, 1.5-4 cm dia.; peduncle short, microsporophyll lanceolate-cuneiform, 20-38 x 11-17 mm, truncate, covered with pollen sacs beneath, apical portion sterile, lower fertile. Megasporophyll forming rossette, densely hairy, blade with 4-6 ovules covered with thick down; blade ovate lacinate up to midrib, with 12-18 linear curved spinous segements. Seeds 1.5-3.5 cm long, flattened, apex emerginate, bright orange or yellow. Fl.: male cone mature in July.
Parts used commercially:
Pith yields sago hence the name sago cycas. Fruits rich in protein also eaten.
Commercial / EXIM data:
About 151 kg of live Cycas revoluta has been exported to China (CITES permit no. A 2606) during 2002. Offence case had been detected at FPO, Kolkata during 2002 against Desmound Corbrai, Kolkata on 25.11.02 for attempt to send pockets of plants, flowers & seeds of Cycas revoluta to USA which violets CITES as well as EXIM Policy and Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972.
About 320 kg of Cycas stems detected at ICD, TKD, Delhi on 03.05.01 for attempt to send the same to UAE, violating EXIM Policy & CITES.
Legal status:
1. Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Subdivision:Gymnospermae
Order: Cycadales
Family: Cycadaceae
Vern.: Nepal Cycas
Distribution:
INDIA: West Bengal (Darjeeling), Sikkim, Bihar, Assam (Goal Para, Kamrup), Meghalaya, Manipur.
NEPAL, BANGLADESH, MYANMAR
Habitat:
Found in the Sal forests of Darjeeling and Sikkim, Someshwar hills and plains of Bihar and Khasi hills in Meghalaya.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. Collected for attractive habit, megasporophylls have pectinate blades.
Description:
Evergreen tree, 2.4-3 (-6.7) m tall, trunk sometimes forking. Leaves 1.5-2.1 m long; petiole ca 44.5 cm long. Distantly spinous; leaflets 17.5-25 cm x 0.4-1.2 cm, narrow linear, sub-falcate, margin flat, pilose with deciduous hair, especially on midrib. Male cone ca 45.5 x 15.2 cm, cylindric-ovoid; microsporophylls 3.5-5 x 1-2.4 cm, shortly peduncled, deltoid, clavate, thickened, acumen ca 4 cm long, subulate, ascending. Megasporophylls 15-20 cm long, densely taway-silky throughout; blade 7.5 cm wide, broadly aricular; acumen 2.5 cm long; margin deeply subulate, pectinate, teeth 1-2 cm long, stalk as long as blade; 2 or 3 pairs of ovules above middle. Seeds ovoid, ca 3.8 cm long, glabrous, orange.
Parts used commercially:
Tender fleshy shoots are eaten as vegetable in Assam and Meghalaya. Seeds are also edible.
Legal status:
1. The plant features in Appendix II of CITES.
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Kumaon, Garhwal, Himachal Opradesh, Jammu & Kashmir
Habitat:
Found in Temperate Himalayas at an altitude of 2500-3000 m.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. Destruction of habitat has probably resulted in decline of this species.
Description:
Upto 60 cm. Leaves alternate, orbicular to lanceolate, plicate, almost scattered. Flowers solitary, 7-10 cm across, pale yellow to white; sepals longer than tip; lip bag shaped. Fl.: June - July..
Commercial / EXIM data:
150 kg of live Cypripedium cordigerum has been transported to US from India during 2002 (CITES Permit no. A 2609)
Legal status:
1. The plant has been included in the Appendix II of CITES.
Class: Dicotyledonae
Order: Ranales
Family: Berberidaceae
Vern.: Bakrachimaka, bhananbakra, papra, papri (Hin.); Papra (Beng.); Padmel, patnel (Mar.); Verivel (Guj.); Vaakakri, papri (Punj.); Banwangan (Kash.); Indian podophyllum (Eng.)
Distribution: INDIA: Inner range of Himalayas from Kashmir to Sikkim.
Habitat:
Found at an altitudes of 2500-4200 m in shady localities. Grows well as undergrowth in fir forests, rich in humas and decayed organic matter in association with species of Rhodendron, Salix,Juniperus and Viburnum. Also found in open alpine meadows.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. Collected for its medicinal properties.
Description:
Erect, glabrous, succulent herb, 35-60 cm high. Rhizome perennial, 2-5 x 1-2 cm, bearing fruit roots. Leaves 2 or 3, orbicular-reniform, palmate, lobed segment. Flowers solitary, cup shaped, white or pink. Fruit berry, oblong, 2.5-5 cm across, orange or red. Seeds numerous.
Parts used commercially:
Rhizomes and roots constitute the drug. Freshly collected rhizomes are reported to contain more active principles which are lost on prolonged storing. The dried rhizome from the source of medicinal resin. Podophyllin obtained from the plant is cholagogue, purgative, alterative, emetic and bitter tonic and is given in conjunction with belladonna and hyoscyamus. Podophyllin is toxic and strongly irritant to skin and mucous membranes. Large dose causes severe vomiting and diarrhoea. It is used in veterinary medicine as a cathartic for dogs and cats, also used in removing warts in animals. Cardio-vascular effects of sub-lethal doses of podophyllin are reported to be wild and transitory. .
Legal status:
The species has been included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Liliales
Family: Liliaceae
Vern.: Gritakumari
Distribution:
INDIA: Throughout.
Habitat:
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered.
Description:
Herb. 2-3 ft high. Leaves succulent, margin with prickles, arranged in a rossette, 30-60 x 5-7.5 cm, lanceolate, acuminate. Scape 60-90 cm. Flowers 2.5 cm across (long ?), yellow to vermilion.
Parts used commercially:
Leaves, Aloe juice and Aloe gel. Aloe juice on drying forms semi-opaque, dark-brown substance called Mussabar in Indian Trade, which has purgative action.
After removing skin leaves are administered in fevers, enlargement of liver, spleen and other glands, skin diseases, constipation, jaundice and rheumatic affections.
The juice of roasted leaf is being given with honey for cough & cold. Salad of leaves is eaten in indigestion, constipation and flatulence. Leaf juice is given as a remedy for intestinal worms in children. Poultice of leaves is applied to tumours, cysts, inflamed parts and scalds.
Legal status:
The plant features in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Alsophila balakrishnanii (Dixit et Tripathi) Dixit.
(= Cyathea balakrishnanii Dixit et Tripathi)
Class: Filicinae
Subclass: Leptosporangiatae
Order: Eufilicales
Family: Cyatheaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala.
Habitat:
Grows along streams with a perennial source of flowing water in moist conditions among rock boulders in the forest floor or in rock crevices. Abundant in the area of occurrence in the forest.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered and endemic.
Description:
Medium sized fern, 1.0-1.5 m high; rhizome mossive, erect. Fronds tufted; stipes thick, fleshy, base dark brown, upper portion light brown. Stipe and rachis hair and small scales; bi to tri pinnate, mature pinnuakles 5-7 x 1-1.2 cm, shallowly lobed throughout, apex crenate; veins 2-3 pairs, rarely 4 pairs. Upper surface to costae dark purplish, hairy to glabrous; lower surface bearing few small scales, membranous, upper surface dark green; lower surface light green; lowermost pinnules 1-2.5 x 0.8-1 cm; fertile pinnules slightlyncopairs, 2-3 pairs only.
Legal status:
Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Alsophila costularis Bak.
(= Cyathea chinensis Copel).
Class: Filicinae
Subclass: Leptosporangiatae
Order: Eufilicales
Family: Cyatheaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Sikkim, Khasi Hills, Lushai Hills.
BHUTAN, CHINA, MYANMAR, VIETNAM.
Habitat:
Plants grow at an altitude of 3000-4000 ft (900-1500 m).
Population status / Cause for RET:
Threatened.
Description:
Tree fern, 2-2.5 m tall; rhizome densely scaly, scales 2.2-5 x 1-1.5 mm, dark brown; stipes dark purple or stramineous brown; base spinose to warty, warty to muricate above, pinnae rachis and costae clothed with crisped dark brown hairs on upper surface, pinnae 50-75 x 10-20 cm, pinnules 8-11 x 1.5-2 cm, deeply lobed; costules 3-4.5 mm apart; veins 7-10 pairs, usually forked. Sori indusiate near costules, indusium attached only on side adjascent to costules, reflexed on maturity with abraded edge hosting the costule; paraphyses shorter than sporangia, costules hairy throughout except near apex of pinnule on the lower surface.
Parts used commercially:
Stems are used in making pots in Meghalaya and Sikkim. Small pieces of stem are eaten as vegetable in Sikkim. The stem are used as wooden post for construction of huts and small cottages.
Legal status:
Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Alsophila gigantea Wall. ex Hook.
Class: Filicinae
Subclass: Leptosporangiatae
Order: Eufilicales
Family: Cyatheaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Sikkim, Meghalaya, Darjeeling, Arunachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh.
BANGLADESH, MYANMAR, NEPAL, CHINA, SRI LANKA, THAILAND, LAOS, VIETNAM.
Habitat:
Along water channels.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered.
Description:
Tree fern, 2-3 m tall; rhizome massive; fronds tufted, crowned; stipes more than one metre long, black, upper part more or less glabrous; scales 10-12 x 1-2 mm, middle portion dark brown, few deciduous scales on rachis and costae. Pinnules short stalked, 8-12.5 x 1.5-2.5 cm, gradually narrowed towards apex, distinctly lobed up to 2/3rd of costa; costules 4-7 mm apart; veins 5-6 pairs; basal basioscopic vein usually from costa, herbaceous, dark green on upper surface, light green on lower surface, margins strongly crenate. Sori exindusiate, basal ones away from costules, upper ones close to costule; paraphyses dark brown, shorter than sporangia. Pinna rachis dark purplish, smooth, glabrescent or with a few small residual scales.
Parts used commercially:
Stems are used in making pots in Meghalaya. Small pieces are boiled in water and there after outer covering of boiled crozier removed, fried and eaten in Sikkim.
Legal status:
Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Alsophila spinulosa (Wall. ex Hook.) Tryon
(= Cyathea spinulosa Wall. ex Hook.)
Class: Filicinae
Subclass: Leptosporangiatae
Order: Eufilicales
Family: Cyatheaceae
Vern.: Tree fern
Distribution:
INDIA: Sikkim, Meghalaya, Assam, West Bengal (Darjeeling), Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu.
NEPAL, BHUTAN, MYANMAR, THAILAND, TAIWAN, CHINA, JAPAN.
Habitat:
Along water channels.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered.
Description:
Ca 10 m tall, stipes 30-40 cm long, stipes straminous brown, spinulose, spines 2-5 mm long; scales 10-20 x 1-2 mm glossy brown middle land, margin pale fragile; rachis bearing short spines, scales flat scattered on stipes, rachis and costae glabrous on lower surface. Mature pinnules 8-10 x 1.5-2.5 cm, upper surface of lamina dark green, lower light green, thin, glaucous; segments lobed almost up to costa, costules crenate-serrate, 3-5 mm apart; vein 10-24 pairs, forked or pinnate. Sori indusiate, indusium thick, covering whole sori, basal part of indusium persistent in old sori, hair absent on lower surface of costae and costules, few flat whitish present.
Parts used commercially:
Small pieces of stem are eaten as vegetable in Sikkim. The stem are also used in making pots.
Legal status:
Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Sphaeropteris albosetacea (Bedd.) Tryon
(= Cyathea albosetacea Bedd.)
Class: Filicinae
Subclass: Leptosporangiatae
Order: Eufilicales
Family: Cyatheaceae
Vern.: Tree fern
Distribution:
INDIA: Nicobar Islands
Habitat:
Abundant in Pandanous forest in rocky clay to sandy loam.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered and narrowly endemic. Slight disturbance in habitat may result in extinction.
Description:
Gregarous tree fern, 5-10 m, trunk 15-20 cm in dia., fronds 2.5-5 m long; stipes stramineous brown, warty to spinulose; spines thick, 1-3 mm long, scttered with scales, glabrous at age. Scales 5.0-10.0 x 1.0-2.0 mm, setiferous; pinnae up to 1 m long, pinnae-rachis warty to spinulose, clothed with multicellular hairs and narrow shining scales, dark brown. Pinnules sessile, 10-15 x 2-2.5 cm, deeply lobed up to costa, basal segments almost free, costules 5-7 mm apart; veins 9-10 pairs; forked, olive green, margin crenate. Sori along costules up to 2/3 portion; small bullate scales abundant on costules, multicellular hairs on lower surface of costae.
Legal status:
Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Sphaeropteris brunoniana (Wall. ex Hook.) Tryon
(= Cyathea brunoniana (Wall. ex Hook.) Clarke & Bak.)
Class: Filicinae
Subclass: Leptosporangiatae
Order: Eufilicales
Family: Cyatheaceae
Vern.: Tree fern
Distribution:
INDIA: North eat Himalayas, Eastern India - West Bengal (Darjeeling, Kalimpong); Meghalaya (Khasia hills); Arunachal Pradesh.
CHINA - Shan States, Tonkin, BANGLADESH.
Habitat:
In the age of forest in open places along water channels.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered.
Description:
Stipe rachis smooth to warty, pinna-rachis straminous, muricate to wavy, pinna ± 70 cm long; pinnules 8-15 x 1-2.5 cm, deeply lobed, lower 1-2 almost free, costules 3.5-5 mm apart; veins 10-13 pairs, forted; lower surface greenish glaucous, margins entire or undulate. Sori exindusiate, fertile segments narrower than the sterile ones, paraphyses many, narrow scales around sorus.
Parts used commercially:
Pinnae is used for worshipping ghosts in Arunachal Pradesh. Small pieces are boiled in water and there after outer covering of boiled crozier removed, fried and eaten in Sikkim.
Legal status:
Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Sphaeropteris holttumiana (Rao et Jamir) Dixit
(= Cyathea holttumiana Rao et Jamir)
Class: Filicinae
Subclass: Leptosporangiatae
Order: Eufilicales
Family: Cyatheaceae
Vern.: Tree fern
Distribution:
INDIA: Nagaland.
Habitat:
In moist hill slopes in forests.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered and Endemic.
Description:
Ca 4 m tall, trunk massive. Stipe, rachis, costulus glabrous. Fronds up to 60 x 25 cm, oblong-lanceolate, stalk up to 2 cm long, pinnate, pinnules numerous, bifarked at apex, sub-opposite or alternate, deeply lobed upto costa; lobes 1.2 x 0.4 cm, slightly falcate, margins entire, sub-coriaceous, glabrous; veins 6-15 pairs. Sori exindusiate, along costules, globose.
Legal status:
Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Sphaeropteris crinita (Hook.) Trayon
(= Cyathea crinita Hook.)
Class: Filicinae
Subclass: Leptosporangiatae
Order: Eufilicales
Family: Cyatheaceae
Vern.: Tree fern
Distribution:
INDIA: South India - Tamil Nadu, Kerala.
SRI LANKA.
Habitat:
In open forest in hilly regions along water channels.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered.
Description:
Stipe, rachis stramineous brown, densely clothed with scales 5-15 x 2-5 mm, thin, margins with dark oblique marginal setae, spinulose to warty. Fronds semi-coriaceous, pinnae ± 60 cm long, lower surface of pinna rachis warty clothed with thin felt of persistent hairs and scales, largest pinnules 10-15 x 1.5-2.5 cm, basal seroscopic segment larger than others, deeply lobed, costules 3-4 mm apart, veins 10-12 pairs, simple or forked, lamina segments oblong, falcate, margins crenate-serrate. Sori exindusiate covering lower surface, paraphyses slender, scales on costae abundant, 5 mm long, costules bearing bullet scales and fringed hairs on lower surface.
Legal status:
Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Araucaria araucana (Molina) Koch.
Subdivision: Gymnospermae
Order: Coniferae
Family: Araucareaceae
Vern.: Chili Pine, Monky puzzle.
Distribution:
Introduced in INDIA: Native to South America.
Habitat:
In loamy soil free from water logging, the plants grows freely survives up to 50 or more years, and on dry shallow or gravelly soil, it becomes irregular.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered.
Description:
Tree, dioecious or occasionally or monoecious. Stem 15-45 m high, 1-1.5 m dia., branches horizontal, in distinct whorls. Leaves spirally arranged, crowded, leathery. Male cones axillary, solitary or in clusters. Female cones globular. Seeds 2.5-3.8 x 1.2 cm, wingless, brown.
Parts used commercially:
Wood is used for making furniture, indoor furnishings, construction works. The bark yields a resin containing bicyclic diterpenes and is used medicinally by Araucarian Indians. Polysaechoride component of resin contains a comparatively rare sugar. The bark is also used for its thermoplastic properties in Argentina. On steam distillation the branches yields pale yellow essential oil. The seeds are either consumed fresh, boiled or roasted.
Legal status:
Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Class: Dicotyledonae
Order: Contortae
Family: Asclepiadaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Junnar and Purandhar Hills, Pune, Maharashtra
Endemic.
Habitat:
Grows at an altitude of 1000 m on exposed bare rocks of hill slopes and on cliffs forming large patches. Thrives on gravely soil.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered and endemic. The plant is an example of paleoendemic on the verge of extinction due to loss of habitat and also inefficiency of the complex pollinating mechanism. During 1982 only 10-15 populations were recorded in its area of distribution.
The plant during draught period sheds its leaves and condenses the stem into thick succulent knots with silver grey upper surface which appears like sivery worms and as vultures pick on these resulting in detachment of some branches. But it is not for sure if this results in distinction of the plant acts as an transporting agency.
Few plants introduced in pots in the experimental garden, Botanical Survey of India, Pune have survived.
Description:
Herbs 10-15 cm high, perennial, fleshy, glabrous; branches thick, pale green. Leaves ca 3 cm long, oblong, obtuse, fleshy, subsessile. Flowers solitary or in pairs; calyx 5-segemented, glabrous, lobes deltoid; corolla ca. 2 cm across, rotate, lobes valvate, deltoid, acute, fringed with fine hairs, purplish with triangular pale yellow spot in centre; corona purplr- outer cupshaped with 5 broad truncate lobes, inner of 5 linear truncate lobes. Staminal column short; anthers red; pollinia 1 in each cell. Style apex flat, pearl white. Follicles terete smooth. Fl.: September - October.
Parts used commercially:
Freria indica with sherry flowers have demand as a pretty succulent horticulture plant indoor decoration.
Legal status:
1. Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
2. Included in Red Data Book of Indian Plants by M.P. Nayar & A.R.K. Sastry, vol. 1, p.p. 72. 2000 (Repr. ed.)
Dioscorea deltoidea Wall. ex Kunth
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Liliiflorae
Family: Dioscoreaceae
Vern.: Yam (Eng.)
Distribution:
INDIA: Himalaya, Kashmir to Assam.
AFGANISTHAN, VIETNAM, West CHINA.
Habitat:
Found at an altitude of 1000 - 3000 m in subtropical Himalayas.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. Decline in population is due to indiscriminate collection for the medicinal value of the tubers. It is difficult to cultivate this plant commercially due to its very slow growth.
Description:
Twining climber, glabrous. Roots tuberous. Leaves 5-12 cm long, acute, acuminate, base deeply cordate, alternate; petiole as long as blade. Male spikes 8-35 cm long, solitary, rarely in pairs, slender; flowers small, in clusters; perianth segments sroadly oblong, stamens 6. Female spikes 8-16 cm long, soliatry, broader than leaf; flowers few. Capsule 1.5-2.5 x 2.5-5 cm. Seed
Parts used commercially:
Tubers are useful medicinally. They are rich in saponin and are also used for washing silk, wool and also dying.
Legal status:
1. Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
2. Included in Red Data Book of Indian Plants by M.P. Nayar & A.R.K. Sastry, vol. 2, p.p. 104. 2000 (Repr. ed.)
Pterocarpus santalinus L. f.
Class: Dicotyledonae
Order: Rosales
Family: Leguminaceae
Vern.: Raktachandan (Hind., Beng.); Tambada chandana (Mar.); Ratanjali (Guj.); Rakta ghandhamu, Agaru gandhamu (Tel.); Atti, Sivaffu chandanam (Tam.); Agslue, Honne (Kan.); Patrangam, Tilaparni (Mal.); Rad Sandal wood, Red Sanders (Eng.).
Distribution:
INDIA: Parts of Andhra Pradesh, Mysore, Chennai.
Habitat:
Found at altitudes of 1500 - 900 m. Grows on dry, hilly, often rocky ground, occasionally found on precipitous hill sides. Prefers lateritic soil and gravelly soil. In natural habitat the tree experiences hot, dry climate with normal rainfall of 88-105 cm received from north-east and south-west mountains. It has been planted successfully on rich alluvial ground.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered.
Description:
Tree, 10-11 m high; bark blackish brown, leaves imparipinnate, leaflets3, rarely 5. Flowers yellow in racemes. Pods winged, ca 5 cm dia. Seeds coriaceous, reddish brown.
Parts used commercially:
The wood is heavily impregnated with reddish brown gum and contains a red dye santalin. The timber is immune to white ants and other insects and doesnot require antiseptic treatment. The timber is used for house posts, agricultural implements, poles, shafts and bent rims of carts, boxes and picture frames. They are also carved into dolls and images. It is exported to Japan where it is used in the manufacture of a musical instrument called Shamisou. The wood yields charcoal and fuel obtained from diseased and crooked trees.
The ground wood, roots and stumps is used for dyeing wool, cotton and leather. It is also used for staining other woods. The dye is also used for colouring pharmaceutical preparations and food stuffs.
Paste of the wood is cooling, astringent, tonic and diaphoretic, also useful in bilious affections and skin diseases. Decoction of the fruit is used as an astringent tonic in chronic dysentery. Leaves are used as cattle fodder.
Commercial / EXIM data:
1. Red snaders used to be exported to Europe for extraction of dye but with the introduction of artificial dyes, its demand declined. Small quantities are exported to Japan, Hongkong, Germany and Sri Lanka.
2. Offence cases detected during 2002 violating CITES & EXIM Policy:
i. 40 kg of red sanders wood and powder along with Inula racemosa was seized at Kolkata airport on 27.03.2002, on way to USA, consignor being M/s Baidyanath Ayurved Bhavan, Kolkata.
ii. 80 kg of red sanders seized at IGI Air Cargo, New Delhi on 08.08.2002, on way to Scotland, consignor being Lalit Exports, New Delhi.
3. Offence cases detected during 2001 violating CITES & EXIM Policy:
i. 1 kg of red sanders was seized at chennai Sea Port on 27.04.2001, on way to Srisivan Temple, Singapore, consignor being Naya Impex, Chennai.
4. Offence cases detained during 2000 violating CITES & EXIM Policy:
i. 170 kg of red sanders powder detected at IGI Air Cargo, New Delhi on 13.03.2000, on way to Dubai, UAE, consignor being M/s Ayurved Kendra, New Delhi.
ii. 90 pcs (56 kg) of musical instrument parts made of Pterocarpus santalinus detained at Chennai Airport on 07.07.2000, on way to Japan, consignor being M/s, Y.J. enterprises, Chennai.
iii. 5 kg of red sandal wood seized at Sea dock, Mumbai on 07.08.2000 on way to Durban, consignor being National Export & Import House, Mumbai.
iv. 400 pcs. of red sanders mala detained at Courier, Delhi on 25.09.2000 on way to Germany, consignor being M/s, Mani Overseas, New Delhi.
v. 20 pcs. of Red sanders japamala seized at IGI Air Cargo, New Delhi, on 20.11.2000, on way to USA, consignor being M/s, Aravali Export, Jaipur.
Legal status:
1. Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Rauvolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. ex Kurz.
Class: Dicotyledonae
Order: Contortae
Family: Apocyanaceae
Vern.: Chandrabagha, Chota chand (Hind.); Chandra (Beng.); Asrel (Urdu); Harkaya, Harki (Mar.); Paataala goni, Paataala garuda (Tel.); Chivan amelpodi (Tam.); Sarpagandhi, Shivavabhiballi, Sutranavi, Patalagondhi (Kan.); Chuvanna-vilpori, Suvapavalforiyan (Mal.); Patalgarur, Sanochada (Oriya).
Distribution:
Sub-Himalayan tract from Punjab eastwards to Sikkim, Assam, in the lower hills of Gangetic plains, eastern and western ghats in some parts of central India and in the Andamans.
NEPAL, BHUTAN, EAST PAKISTAN, SRI LANKA, MYANMAR, MALAYA, TAILAND & JAVA.
Habitat:
Grows well in hot humid conditions, temperature ranging between 10-38oC, both in the open and partial shade, but cannot tolerate full open sun. It prefers tropical or subtropical belt having the benefit of monsoon rains, rainfall ranging from 250-500 cm and prefers sandy alluvial loam to red lateritic loam or stiff dark loam.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. Collected indiscriminately due to the medicinal properties of the roots which had denuded many forest areas in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Chennai and Maharashtra. The plant is under experimental cultivation in Dehra Dun, Bihar, Orissa, West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu (Chennai), Kerala, Karnataka (Mysore), Maharashtra and Gujarat.
Description:
Erect undershrub, 15-45 cm high. Roots tuberous, irregularly nodular, bark pale brown. Leaves 7.5-17.5 x 4.3-6.8 cm, in whorls of three, elliptic lanceolate, acute or acuminate, dark green above, pale green below. Flowers white or pinkish in cymes. Fruits drupe, obliquely ovoid, connate, purplish black.
Parts used commercially:
Rauvolfia roots are of immense medicinal value and has steady demand. It is used for treating various central nervous system disorders.
The pharmacological activity of rauvolfia is due to the presence of several alkaloids of which reserpine is the most important, which is used for its sedative action in mild anxiety states and chronic psychoses. It has a depressant action on central nervous system produces sedation and lowers blood pressure.
The root extracts are used for treating intestinal disorders, particularly diarrhoea and dysentery and also anthelmintic. It is used for the treatment of cholera, colic and fever. The juice of the leaves is used as a remedy for opecity of the cornea.
The total root extracts exhibits a variety of effects, viz., sedation, hypertension, brodyeardia, myosis, ptosis, tremors, which are typical of reserpine.
Commercial / EXIM data:
1. During 2000, 100 kg of roots/rhizome of R. serpentina (L.) Benth. ex Kurz. Has been exported to Switzerland (CITES Permit no. A1668).
2.235 kg of root/rhizome extract used in ayurvedic formulation has been exported to Russian Federation (CITES permit no. A 1668, A 1683, A1693, A 1694, A 1696, A 1697).
2. Offence case detected during 2002, violating CITES & EXIM Policy:
i. 100 kg of R. serpentina seized at Air Cargo Complex, Mumbai on 03.04.2002, on way to Spain, consignor being Esschem Overseas (Pvt.) Ltd., Mumbai.
3. Offence cases detected during 2001 violating CITES & EXIM Policy:
i. 100 gms of Rauvolfia powder detected at FPO, New Delhi on 31.07.2001, on way to New York, USA, consignor being Vedmata Gayatri Trust, Hardwar.
4. Offence cases detained during 2000 violating CITES & EXIM Policy:
i. 1.8 kg of roots and other items of Rauvolfia serpentina seized at FPO, Kolkata on 29.08.2000, on way to Holland.
Legal status:
1. Included in the Appendix II of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) which restricts its export.
Adulteration:
The roots of Rauvolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. ex Kurz. Are usually aduletrated with the stem of the same plant. But the root can be easily distinguished from the stems in having more wrinkled surface, less flexible, thicker and less branched. They are also adulterated with Ophiorrhiza mungos and white flowered and red flowered Clerodendron species. Roots of R. beddomei, R. densiflora, R. micrantha, R. perkensis and R. tetraphylla are also used as adulterants.
Gnetum montanum Mgf.
Division: Gymnospermae
Order: Gnetales
Family: Gnetaceae
Vern.: Mamelet (Ass.); Thaulping-rhui (Lusai, Mizo); Mai-lar-iong-une (Khasi); Ula (Mal.); Umlli (Mar.); Lolori (Ori).
Distribution:
INDIA: Eastern Himalayas from Sikkim, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Bihar, Orissa to the Andamans, western India and Tamil Nadu.
THAILAND, CHINA, VIETNAM, NEPAL.
Habitat:
Found at an altitude 300-1800 m.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Threatened.
Description:
Evergreen, dioecious climber; branches smooth, swollen at nodes. Leaves opposite, simple, oblong-ovate, 12-30 cm, dark green. Male inflorescence branched twice, fertile portion of the spike 3 cm long; flowers upto 20; perianth 1 mm, sporophyll 1 mm, sporangia 2. Imperfect female flowers 1 mm, ovoid, nitegument cleft with apex. Female inflorescence branched twice or thrice, bracts 4 x 1 mm; female flowers 5-7 in each bract, perianth 3 x 2 mm, inner nitegument projecting into a tube with toothed mouth. Fruits ellipsoid 1.5 x 1 cm, smooth, short stalked, epicarp fleshy, red; mesocarp woody, endocarp chartaceous. Seeds oblong, 2.5-3.7 cm orange. Fl. & Fr.: May - December.
Parts used commercially:
Stem and roots are antiperiodic. Seeds produce oil for massage for rheumatism. Plant is also used as fish poison.
Legal status:
Included in the Appendix III of CITES (Convention on International Trade of endangered species of wild Fauna and Flora) and as such requires close vigil.
Nepenthes khasiana Hook. f.
Class: Dicotyledonae
Order: Sarraceniales
Family: Nepenthaceae
Vern.: Pitcher plant; monkey cups; tiewrakot; ksete-phare; memang koksi
Distribution:
INDIA: Meghalaya.
Habitat:
The plant prefers acidic and nitrogen deficient soil, high rainfall and a warm climate. The pitcher traps insects to compensate for nitrogen deficiency in the soil.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered and endemic, almost non-existent in its natural habitat in Meghalaya. The major threats to the plant population are due to human activities like agriculture, deforestation, coal mining, road construction. Animal grazing, land slides and forest fire have also destroyed their natural habitats. Botanical Survey of India, Eastern Circle, Shillong maintains the plant for ex-situ conservation and has also started tissue culture. The Meghalaya State Forest Department (Silviculture Division) has set up ex-situ germplasm of the plant for conservation at Umian (Barapani) Forest Research Station.
Description:
Dioecious, shrubs, climbing by leaves. Leaves alternate; an expanded lamina with tendril terminated by a pendant, coloured cylindrical pitcher with a recurved fluted rim and operculum. Inflorescence raceme or panicle. Flowers actinomorphic. Tepals 3 – 4, in 2 whorls, nectariferous. Male flowers - stamens 2 – 24, filaments connate; anthers bilocular. Female flowers – carpels 3 – 4, ovary superior; ovules many, style 1, stigma discoid. Fruits elongated, leathery capsule. Seeds numerous, filiform.
Parts used commercially:
The plant finds ethnomedicinal uses. Khasi and Garo tribes use the fluid of unopened pitcher of the plant as eye drops to cure cataract and night blindness, and also for treating stomach troubles, diabetes and gynaecological problems.
Legal status:
1. Included in the list of rare and threatened taxa of India (Jain & Rao, 1983).
2. Included in the Appendix I of CITES which restricts its export.
Cycas beddomei Dyer
Class: Gymnospermae
Order: Cycadales
Family: Cycadaceae
Vern.: Beddomes cycas
Distribution:
INDIA: Endemic to Cuddapah – Tirupati range of the south eastern ghats in Andhra Pradesh.
Habitat:
Grows in dry deciduous forest on the exposed rocky slopes and in the valleys of the Tirupati hills within altitudes of 300 – 900 m; along the rock strewn holy streams of the Tirumala, in association with Phoenix pusilla Gart., Decaschistia cuddapahensis Paul et Nayar, Gardenia gummnifera L. and Pterocarpus santalinus L.f.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered. Destruction of natural habitat, forest clearing and over exploitation of the species has resulted in its declination. In some cases collectors selectively remove female plants because the cones are more attractive and have a higher price and as such upsets the male to female plants ratio.
Description:
Shrub, trunk up to 40 cm high; bark brown, exfoliating in rectangular scales. Leaves up to 90 x 23 cm, rachis quadrangular, petiole up to 15 cm with minute spines on upper portion, base clothed with tufted tomentum; leaflets 10 – 17.5 x 0.3 cm, apex pointed, margins revolute. Male cone 30 x 7.5 cm, peduncle short; microsporophyll with oblong, deltoid, tapering , acuminate apex, lower erect, upper strongly recurved. Megasporophylls 15 – 21 cm long, blade 7.5 x 2.5 cm, ovato-lanceolate, tapering to a long acuminate point, dentate, lobate; ovules 2 – 4. Seeds globose.
Legal status:
1. Included in the Red Data Book of Indian Plants (Vol. 1; p. 359) by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.), Botanical Survey of India.
2. Included in the Appendix I of CITES which restricts its export.
Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipschitz.
Class: Dicotyledonae
Order: Companulatae
Family: Asteraceae
Vern.: Costus, Kuth, Kashmirja.
Distribution:
INDIA: W. Himalayas, Jammu & Kashmir (Kishenganga valley & higher elevations of Chenab valley, Himachal Pradesh (Chamba), Uttar Pradesh (cultivated).
PAKISTAN.
Habitat:
Found in sub-alpine Himalayas, on open hill slopes, at an altitude of 2400-3900 m. Fl.: June - September.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered, endangered due to indiscriminate collection (for its roots) and also destruction of habitat. The plant is being cultivated on a small scale in the Lahul-Spiti (Himachal Pradesh). Its commercial cultivation was taken up during 1920's & 1930's in Kashmir, Lahul & Garhwal in its natural habitat.
Description:
Herbs, 1-2.5 m, pubescent. Root stout, carrot like, up to 60 cm long, greyish to dull brownish, posses characteristic odour. Basal leaves scabrous above, glabrous beneath, margin irregularly toothed; petiole 60-90 cm, lobately winged. Cauline semiamplexicaul. Involucral bracts ovato-lanceolate, glabrous, purple. Flowers in heads, 2.5-4.0 cm dia, axillary or terminal clusters of 2-5, sessile. Petals dark purple. Anther tail fimbriate. Achene 8 mm, compressed, curved. Pappus hairs brown, double, feathery.
Parts used commercially:
The roots of the plant are used in perfumery. Dry roots (Kuth, Costus) are strongly scented and yields an aromatic oil, which is also used in making insecticides. The roots contain an alkaloid, 'saussurine', which is medicinally important. It is an antiseptic, used in chronic skin diseases, asthma and high blood pressure and also good for stomach ailment. Also used as carminative, stimulant, prophylactic and sedative. Dry roots constitute the drug 'Saussurea'. The roots have strong and sweet aromatic odour and a somewhat bitter taste. In Kashmir the roots are used to protect woolen fabrics. Kuth is also distilled for its essential oil. Approx. 100 kg of oil / resinoid is produced in India.
Commercial / EXIM data:
Roots used to be exported to China, Japan and Europe. Kulu is the biggest centre of trade for Kuth. The kuth roots are collected and supplied to State Trading Corporation by the State Forest Department and the same from Lahul is collected by Lahul Kuth Grower's Society, Manali and supplied to State Trading corporation. Presently Kuth roots are mostly exported to HongKong, France and Singapore. It is also exported to Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, Siberia and Netherlands. Kuth exported to Europe, primarily France & Netherlands is used for oil production. Export to France started in 1964-65, whereas Japan in 1965-66 with steadily increasing trends. Regarding price of Kuth roots, average export price during 1965-70 was Rs. 2.65/kg, which later increased to Rs. 7.85/kg. Export price varies during a particular period varies among different countries. Export price to Thailand was highest, Rs. 9.77/kg during 1970-74 and tothat of Singapore was Rs. 6.44/kg.
Adulteration of Kuth oil:
Kuth oil is adulterated with oil of vetiver due to their similar physico-chemical properties, which can be detected by their odour.
Oil from the roots of Inula helenium is also used for adulteration of Kuth oil.
True resinoid is sometimes adulterated with resins from roots after extracting oil with steam.
Legal status:
1. Included in Red Data Book (Vol. 2; pp 69) of Indian Plants by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
2. The plant has been included in the Appendix I of CITES.
3. Included in the Negative list of export of the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India.
4. Included in the 'Schedule VI' of the Wildlife Protection Act of India (Anon, 1995) which makes its unauthorized collection from wild a punishable offence.
Renanthera imschootiana Rolfe
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Vern.: Red Vanda
Distribution:
INDIA: Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram.
extends to MYANMAR, SOUTHEAST ASIA.
Habitat:
The species grows as an epiphyte on large broad leaved tree trunks at an altitude of 1000-2000 m high, preferably in sunny areas. Its distribution areas in India receive moderate to high rainfall of ca 250 cm. Fl. : May - July.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered, due to indiscriminate collection of its plants and destruction of habitat. Some plants have been introduced into the National Orchidaria of Botanical Survey of India at Shillong and Yercaud. They are also cultivated in several orchid nurseries and botanic gardens in India.
Description:
Stem woody, upto 90 cm long. Leaves oblong, apex bilobed, 10 x 1.5 cm, deep green. Inflorescence upto 30 cm long, horizontally spreading, 15-30 flowered. Flowers bright red, diam. 5 cm; dorsal sepal linear-lanceolate, 20 x 4 mm, lateral sepal 25-30 x 15-20 mm, elliptic-ovate, clawed, divergent; petals spathulate, 14 x 2 mm, red; leap small, sessile, 5 mm long, 3 lobed with short spur, bright red.
Commercial / EXIM data:
As a whole orchids are collected to satisfy an ever demanding market of orchid fanciers, especially in Europe, North America and Asia. The trade is aimed at specially selected hybrids as well as botanical species.
Legal status:
1. The plant has been included in the Appendix I of CITES.
2. It is also included in Red Data Book (Vol. 1, pp 278) of Indian Plants by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
Paphiopedilum charlesworthii (Rolfe) Pfitz.
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: West Bengal, Arracan hills and border tracts of Lushai Hills.
Habitat:
Found at an altitude of about 1500-1700 m. Fl.: October - November.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered. Destruction of natural habitat & over collection has probably resulted in decline of this plant species. It has been introduced to cultivation in 1893.
Description:
Leaves up to 22 x 2.5 cm, broadly linear lanceolate. Sacpe up to 15 cm, one flowered. Flowers 7.5 cm across; dorsal sepal 4.5 x 5 cm, orbicular, slightly hooded at tip, deep rose; petals spreading, greenish brown, veins deep green, ligulate. Lip broad, purplish brown, shaded with brown or rosy tint; staminode 1 x 1 cm, white with a conical papilla.
Legal status:
1. The plant has been included in the Appendix I of CITES.
Paphiopedilum druryi (Bedd.) Stein
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Agastha Malai, Travancore hills, Kerala.
ENDEMIC.
Habitat:
Inhabits withered rocks and their sandy loam type soils in the plains or in the slopes, montane grasslands, often in partial shade along with tall grasses, shrubs or small stunted trees; sometimes reported to be epiphytic on Euphorbia spp. Fl.: March - April.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered. The species was originally collected by Col. Drury in 1865 from Travancore hills and later by R.H. Beddome from Kalakkad hills in 1875. Since this is a very much sought of member of the genus Paphiopedilum for its attractive flowers it has been collected indiscriminately from its wild habitat. Presently it is being cultivated in some botanical gardens and private orchid nurseries all over the world. It is also being cultivated in the National Orchidaria of Botanical Survey of India at Yercaud.
Description:
Perennial herbs, rhizomes up to 1 cm long, producing 5-6 shoots; stems upto 30 cm long, purplish; leaves strap shaped, 20-30 x 3-5 cm, glossy green. Flowers solitary, yellowish green to yellow with purple stripes; upper sepal broadly ovate, margin hairy, other sepals fused to the apex; lateral petals spreading or slightly drooping wit dark purple median stripe; lip sleeper like, 3.5-4.5 cm long, bright yellow, purple spotted.
Legal status:
1. Endangered in Red Data Book (Vol. 1, pp 264) of Indian Plants by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
2. The plant has been included in the Appendix I of CITES.
3. Included in the IUCN Plant Red Data Book (5)
Paphiopedilum hirsutissimum (Lindl. ex Hook.) Stein
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Scattered distribution in Mizoram, Nagaland, Assam, Meghalaya (Jowai Hills)
THAILAND, VIETNAM.
Habitat:
Grows in humus rich soil, in hilly forest tracts, at an altitude ranging from 1200-1800 m.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered. The plant valued for its beautiful flowers has been collected indiscriminately for commercial trade by amateurs and also by professionals. Loss of its natural habitat has also affected this lady's slipper orchid population. Presently the species in wild condition is on the verge of depletion and is only distributed in some isolated pockets of its entire distributional range.
Description:
Semi-epiphytic. Leaves 3-5, acute, 30 x 4 cm, strap shaped, oblong, green. Scape ca 30 cm long, purple haired, one flower at apex. Flowers 12-15 cm dia., ciliated; dorsal sepal 4 x 3.5 cm, pale green with darker green centre and base, purple veined, distinctly keeled; petals tongue-shaped , hairy, base waxy, deep purple and green. Lip helmet shaped , green flushed with dark purple.
Legal status:
1. Rare in the Red Data Book (Vol. 3, pp 200) of Indian Plants by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
2. Included in the Appendix I of CITES which restricts its export.
Paphiopedilum insigne (Wall. ex Lindl.) Pfitz.
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Khasia hills, Meghalaya.
BANGLADESH (Sylhet), NEPAL .
Habitat:
Grows along open hilly slopes and rock crevices, in areas receiving moderately high or high annual rainfall. Prefers well drained soils rich in humus. Fl. : October - December.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered. This species of Paphiopedilum is of immense horticultural value owing to its beautiful flowers. This species was first described by Wallich in 1819 from Sylhet (Bangladesh), later Griffith reported it from Khasia hills (Meghalaya). Presently the plant occurs sporadically in Meghalaya in India, though it was once reported to be fairy common. It is at present very rare and vulnerable perhaps due to indiscriminate collection of its natural populations and also destruction of its habitat. Presently the species is under cultivation in several orchidaria and orchid nurseries. The plants have been introduced into the National Orchidaria of Botanical Survey of India at Shillong and Yercaud.
Description:
Leaves upto 2.5 cm long, strap-shaped, broadly linear, acute, pale green. Scape ca 30 cm. Flowers variable in colour; dorsal sepal with white apical portion spotted purple, base light green; petals linear-oblong, margin wavy, glabrous, yellowish green. Lip helmet shaped, light or yellowish green with brown shade.
Legal status:
1. Included in Red Data Book (Vol. 1, pp 268) of Indian Plants by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
2. Included in the Appendix I of CITES which restricts its export.
Paphiopedilum fairieanum (Lindl.) Stein
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Vern.: Asian Lady's Slipper; Lost Orchid.
Distribution:
INDIA: Eastern Himalayas and small pockets in southern Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh.
BHUTAN.
Habitat:
Grows on crystalline lime stone, sheltered grassy slopes, on moss covered boulders in oak forest floors, on gneiss ledges among grasses in well drained gravelly areas near streams and rivers in the altitudes of 1400-2200 m. Grows well in areas receiving high rainfall during monsoon and is dry and cool for the rest of the year.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered. This species was described by Lindley in 1857 on the basis of a cultivated plant exhibited before the Horticultural Society by R. Fairrie of Liverpool. The species was rediscovered after about half a century by G.C. Searight when Frederick Sander offered ₤1000, from Torsa or Amuchu Valley, Chumbi district in west Bhutan. Indiscriminate collection of natural populations, grazing, forest fires have led to the decline of the species in its natural habitats. Being cultivated in different orchidaria and botanic gardens of the world. Presently cultivated in the National Orchidaria of Botanical Survey of India at Shillong and Yercaud.
Description:
Leaves 15-20 x 2-3.5 cm, linear, obtuse, green. Scape 25 cm long, slender, one flowered rarely two flowered. Flowers 6-8 cm diam.; dorsal sepal oval, margin undulated, white, yellowish green at base, streaked with brownish purple; petals fringed with black hairs, curved upwards (? Outwards) at the tip, pale yellow, purpled veined; lip elongated, greenish violet with purple veins.
Legal status:
1. Endangered and rare included in the threatened plants publications of the Botanical Survey of India.
2. Included in the Appendix I of CITES which restricts its export.
3. Included as endangered and rare in Red Data Book of Indian Plants (Vol. 1, pp 266) by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
Paphiopedilum spicerianum (Reichb. f.) Pfitz.
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Assam.
BHUTAN, MYANMAR.
Habitat:
Grows in areas which receives heavy monsoon and torrential rains from July to September; and from October to May derives moisture from mists arising from rivers and pre-monsoon thundershowers, on calcareous limestone formations under shades in association with Globba spp. and ferns, and on lime stone ledges with leaves hanging down perhaps to drain off excess precipitation duringthe heavy monsoon period. The roots run on the surface of the rocks or some times penetrate the substratum where it has humus or has been softened. In exposed places the roots are covered by algae and seedlings often grow along the roots.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered. Indiscriminate collection of the plants for horticulture and also destruction of its natural habitat by natural catastrophes like earthquakes and landslides has resulted in almost depletion of this exceedingly beautiful species. Since this species occurs in isolated pockets hardly covering 500 sq. km, it has become very rare in natural conditions.
This plant is an important parent of nearly all modern Paphiopedilum hybrids and hence has great horticultural significance. It is also cultivated by orchid lovers all over the world.
Description:
Leaves 3-5, linear-oblong, leathery, 15-30 x 2.5-4.5 cm, dark green, purple spotted beneath, margin undulated. Scape upto 30 cm, erect, slender, hairy, purple, one flower at apex [one flowered]. Flowers 6 cm dia.; dorsal sepal elliptic-orbicular, upto 3.8 x 4.5 cm, white, base greenish; petals reflexed, yellowish green with median line and streaks of red. Lip up to 4.5 cm long, slipper shaped, brownish green; staminode orbicular, brown flushed with crimson.
Legal status:
1. Included as vulnerable in Red Data Book (Vol. 1, pp 269) of Indian Plants by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
2. Included in the Appendix I of CITES which restricts its export.
Paphiopedilum venustum (Wall. ex Sims.) Pfitz.
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Meghalaya, Sikkim, Assam.
BANGLADESH.
Habitat:
Grows at an altitude of about 1300 m in moist shady places in association with Selaginella spp., preferably near water sources.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered. Over collection and destruction of its natural habitat has resulted in fast depletion of natural populations in the wild conditions.
The plant is cultivated in several orchidaria. It requires a media of leaf mould, sand and powdered charcoal in a proportion of 8:1:1, which has to be watered frequently.
Description:
Leaves 5-7, variegated, upto 15 x 4 cm, narrow oblong to elliptic, dark bluish green above, mottled with grey-green, dull purple beneath. Scape upto 30 cm, erect, 1 or 2 flowered. Flowers 7.5 cm dia.; dorsal sepal broadly ovate, ciliate, dark green veined; lateral sepals connate, oblanceolate, ciliate; petals linear-oblong, greenish purple with black spots. Lip greenish yellow, reticulate, green veined, forming a cylindrical pouch.
Legal status:
1. Vulnerable in Red Data Book (Vol. 1, pp 271) of Indian Plants by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
2. Included in the Appendix I of CITES which restricts its export.
This species has three varieties var. venustum, var. rubrum U.C. Pradhan and var. teestaensis U.C. Pradhan.
var. rubrum U.C. Pradhan
Distribution:
INDIA: Meghalaya.
Description:
Leaves 17 x 4 cm. Scape 11 cm. Dorsal sepal ovate, 2.7 x 2 cm, white, green striped; petals oblanceolate, 3.5 x 0.8 cm, deep wine red; staminode with bilobed apex and trilobed base; labellum 3.6 x 1.8 cm, wine red with dark green reticulations.
var. teestaensis U.C. Pradhan
Distribution:
INDIA: Teesta Valley.
Description:
Leaves 14 x 4 cm, elliptic, grass green, mottled olive green, purple spotted on ventral side. Scape 21 cm. Dorsal sepal ovate, 3.6 x 2.6 cm; petals oblong-obovate, 5 x 1.8 cm, brownish-pink; staminode lunate, 3-lobed, central lobe shorter than lateral lobes.
Paphiopedilum villosum (Lindl.) Stein
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Assam, Mizoram.
MYANMAR.
Habitat:
Found in dense forests on cool humus rich forests or on moss covered root boulders or as an epiphyte, at an altitude of 1200-1700 m, in areas receiving an annual rainfall of about 250 cm on an average. The species also grows on tree trunk crotches with a lot of bright light, rooted in moss or ferns.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered. Since this species is one of the beautiful member of Paphiopedilum and has much demand in horticultural trade. For the long lasting quality of the flowers it has been collected. Indiscriminately loss of natural habitat due to afforestation has also resulted in the decline of the number of plant.
The species has been vegetatively propagated and has been multiplied in pots as well as plots in the National Orchideria of Botanical Survey of India at Shillong and Yercaud.
This species was first discovered by Thomas Lobb in 1853 in Myanmar.
Description:
Terrestrial or epiphytic herbs. Stems very short or absent. Leaves upto 25 x 5 cm, coriaceous, linear, ligulate, bright green above, pale green below, purple spotted at base, apex acute or tifid. Scape upto 30 cm, 1 flowered, hirsute; bracts oblong. Flowers 15 cm diam.; dorsal sepal ovato-orbicular, lower margin revolute, apex white, greenish purple at base and centrel lateral sepals upto 6 cm long, green; petals brownish yellow, spoon shaped, margin ciliate curved forward; lip upto 5 cm long, dilobed, slipper shaped, yellow with brownish margin, veins light pink.
Legal status:
1. Included as vulnerable in Red Data Book (Vol. 1, pp 272) of Indian Plants by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
2. Included in the Appendix I of CITES which restricts its export.
3. Listed in threatened plants list of India.
4. Recommended by Botanical Survey of India for inclusion in the schedules of the Wildlife Act of the Government of India.
Paphiopedilum wardii Summerh.
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Lohit district of Arunachal Pradesh.
ENDEMIC.
Habitat:
Grows on granite rocky surface covered with mosses and leaf litter. Fl.: December - February.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered. The species has not been known from its type locality in Arunachal Pradesh after its first record. It is not known under cultivation. Most probably degradation of its natural habitats, due to Jhumming, the plant is endangered. The plant is an ornamental species and flowers in winters.
Description:
Terrestrial herb. Leaves 10-15 x 3.5-5.5 cm, oblong-elliptic, green or dull blue green, undersides mottled with purplish red spots, glabrous. Scape 15-20 cm, erect, 1 flowered. Flowers: dorsal sepal 4-5 x 2.5 cm, ovate, white with parallel green nerves, ciliate; petals oblong acute. Labellum 4-5 cm long, trilobed with rotundate apex, obtuse, green with wine red spots; staminodes broadly crescentic.
Legal status:
1. Included in Red Data Book of Indian Plants(Vol. 1, pp 272) by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
2. Included in the Appendix I of CITES which restricts its export.
Vanda coerulea Griff. ex Lindl.
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Vern.: Blue vanda
Distribution:
INDIA: Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Nagaland.
MYANMAR, THAILAND.
Habitat:
Grows in mixed pine forests on hills at an altitude between 1300-2000 m, usually on Quercus species.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Critically endangered. J.D. Hooker reported about the abandance of the species in 1847, in the forests of Khasia hills. But unfortunately this commercially marketable orchid owing to its beautiful ornamental flowers has been collected indiscriminately from wild conditions by amateurs, as well as by professionals. Destruction of its habitat throughout its distributional range has also depleted the wild population. Presently the species is cultivated in some private nurseries and orchidarium of the Arunachal Pradesh State Government at Tipi. It is also under ex-situ conservation in the National Orchidaria of Botanical Survey of India at Shillong, Barapani and Yercaud.
Description:
Epiphytic, stems stout, upto 15-60 cm high. Leaves strap shaped, leathery, stiff, 10-20 x 1.5-2.5 cm, apex obliquely truncate, dark green. Inflorescence 1-3, 25-60 cm long, 6-12 flowered, erect or sub-erect. Flowers pale lavender or dark blue; sepals and petals 4-4.5 x 2-2.5 cm, obovate or orbicular, apex rounded; labellum 3-lobed, lateral lobes 2 mm long, incurved, middle lobe emarginate at apex, with 2 keels.
Legal status:
1. Included in the Appendix I of CITES which restricts its export
2. Endangered in Red Data Book of Indian Plants(Vol. 3, pp 202) by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
TRADE IN ORCHIDS:
Orchids are quite popular among professionals as well as amateurs orchid lovers all over the world. Orchid trade is sharing about 8% of international flower market is a very productive with centres concentrated in Europe (the Netherlands), America (California), Japan, Thailand, Bangkok, Singapore.
India has rich orchid genetic resources but still the orchid industry is in its infancy probably due to lack of awareness about the commercial significance. Orchid cultivation has been initiated by some entrepreneurs at Bangalore, Chandigarh, Gangtok, Mumbai, Chingelpet, Cochin, Ernakulam, Quilon, Kalimpong, Pune and Thiruvananthapuram. Breeding work has also been initiated at Orchid Research & Development Centre (ORDC); Tipi, Arunachal Pradesh; Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (TBGRI), Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala; Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bangalore, Karnataka and in some Indian Universities.
Orchid trade may be classified into four categories:
(i) Plants;
(ii) species;
(iii) hybrids; and
(iv) cut flowers.
The value of orchid plants vary according to the quality of flowers and rarity of occurrence. Some orchids have high demand in international market. Northeast India has got tremendous potential of orchid cut flower trade which may prove to be a fruitful industry in southeast Asia, Australia and Hawaii.
The major threat to orchids are due to extraction of wild plants for trade and habitat alteration or destruction. About 147 orchid species are under threat of extinction worldwide, ca 35 species in Indian region (including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Pakistan) are considered extinct or on the verge of extinction and over 100 species are threatened (Pradhan, 1996). In many north east states particularly in Manipur and Meghalaya, rural people collect orchids from the wild and sell them in the market at a very cheap rate for their livelihood.
Species Survival Commission (SSC) of International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) has formulated a strategic action plan to suggest conservation strategies and document the diversity for orchids in general. The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Flora and Fauna (CITES) prohibits trade of orchids by placing certain species in Appendix I and the rest in Appendix II.
Government of India has already taken up steps to protect orchid rich habitats by establishing protected areas in floristically rich areas of the country. Public awareness is perhaps the most important requirement.
Class: Dicotyledonae
Order: Dipsacales
Family: Valerianaceae
Vern.: Jatamansi (Sans.); Jatamansi, Bal-chir (Hind.); Jatamansi (Beng.); Jatamanshi (Mar.); Jatamasi, Kalichhad (Guj.); Jatamanshi (Tel., Kan. & Mal.); Bhutijatt, Kukilipot (Kash.); Masi (Garh.); Haswa, Naswa, Jatamangsi (Nepal); Pampe, Jatamansi (Bhutan)
Distribution:
INDIA: Himalayas, Punjab to Sikkim.
TIBET, BHUTAN, WEST CHINA.
Habitat:
Found in alpine Himalayas at an altitude of 3000-5000 m. Fl./Fr. : June - August.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. Over exploitation of the plant due to medicinal properties of rhizomes and also habitat destruction has resulted in steady depletion of the species.
Description:
Perennial, erect herb, 10-60 cm. Rootstock stout, long, covered with fibres from the petioles of withered leaves. Stem pubescent upwards, glabrous below. Radical leaves 5-20 x 2.5 cm, spathulate, glabrous or slightly pubescent; cauline leaves 1-2 pairs, 2.5-7.5 cm long, sessile, sub-ovate. Flower heads 1 - 5; flowers rosy pale pink or blue; bracts 4-6 mm, pubescent; corolla tube 6 mm, hairy inside. Fruits 4 mm, obovate, flattened.
Parts used commercially:
The rhizomes are used as a drug and also in perfumery. The rhizomes are collected from wild plants and sent to markets; about 18,650 kg of the drug are brought in to Punjab markets annually. The roots and rhizomes of Cymbopogon schoenanthus and Selimum vaginatum are often found as adulterants of valerin. Spikenard oil obtained from the roots is used in many medicinal preparations and is well known as a hair tonic and also imparts black colour. It has antiarrhythmic activity with possible therapeutical usefulness in cases of auricular flatter; it is less effective than quinidine but has the advantage of being less toxic. The oil exerts hypotensive effects and in moderate doses it has a distinct depressant action on central nervous system; lethal doses cause deep narcotic and ultimately death within a few hrs. The rhizome is a stimulant, antispasmodic, diuretic, stomachic, laxative and tonic. An infusion of rhizome is useful in epilepsy, hysteria, palpitation of heart. A tincture is given in colic and flatulence.
Legal status:
1. Included in Red Data Book of Indian Plants (Vol. 2,pp 245) by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.) of Botanical Survey of India.
2. The plant has been included in the Appendix II of CITES.
Class: Dicotyledonae
Order: Myrtiflorae
Family: Thymelaeaceae
Vern.: Aloe wood, Eagle wood, Agar wood (Eng.); Agar (Guj., Hind.); Agaru (Beng.); Aggalichandanam (Tam.); Agru (Tel.)
Distribution:
INDIA: Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Meghalaya, Assam, West Bengal
MYANMAR, extends through south east ASIA to PHILIPPINES.
Habitat:
Large evergreen tree, found in the hills.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. Over exploitation and due to habitat destruction has resulted in steady depletion of the species.
Description:
Trees, 18-21 m high, girth 1.5-2.5 m dia., stem straight, often fluted. Leaves 5-9 cm long, slightly coriaceous, oblong-lanceolate. Flowers white or dirty yellow, small; perianth 4 mm (1/4th inch.), silky, densely pubescent on the inner side. Fruits obovoid, 4-6 cm long.
Parts used commercially:
Wood is stimulant, tonic, aphrodisiac, carminative, astringent, also used in diarrhoea, constipation, vomiting and snakebite. Agar is a pathological product, formed due to a fungal disease on wound or boring in the trunk, the fluid resin does not exude naturally or on tapping. Trees, about 50 yrs old, have the highest concentration of agar. Sometimes all the tissues under the bark of the tree may be converted into agar. True agar is heavier than water, and is hard, brown and rich in resin. Agar is sold in the market as chips, splinters and blocks. Sylhet agar has the highest price; Dhum, of inferior quality, is softer and yellowish-white, and is used distilling volatile oil called agar attar. Clothes and skins dusted with agar powder repel fleas and lice. Agar is a stimulant and carminative. The wood used for making bows and sticks. It is also highly scented and yields on distillation, agar attar. The resinous wood is used for making incense sticks. The wood is also used by cabinet makers and inlayers for making beads, rosaries, crucifixes, ornaments, etc. The fibre extracted from bark is used for making ropes.
Commercial / EXIM data:
Assam agar is exported to Turkey, Arabia, Persia and Europe via Kolkata. Indian agar finds large export market in the Arabian countries. Agar oil costs about Rs. 40,000/kg (1982). Black agar wood (Grade I) has the value of Rs. 10000/kg, whereas Dhum (Grade IV) costs Rs. 6/kg.
Legal status:
The plant has been included in the Appendix II of CITES.
Picrorhiza kurrooa Royle ex Benth.
Class: Dicotyledonae
Order: Tubiflorae
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Vern.: Kuru, Kutki (Hin. & Beng.); Kutaki (Mar.); Kadu (Guj.); Katukarogani, Kadugurohini (Tel., Tam., Mal.); Kaur (Kash.); Karru (Punj.); Katuka katurohini (Sans.); Kuruwa (Garh.).
Distribution: INDIA: Himalayas – Jammu & Kashmir to Sikkim.
NEPAL and extending to the mountains of YUNNAN in CHINA.
Habitat:
Fleshy roots perennial on rocky alpine slopes at an altitude of 2700 – 5000 m.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. The species is over exploited for its medicinal properties. The plant is not known in cultivation. Exploration trips to the ‘Valley of Flowers’ National Park has shown an increase in the population of the species, and about 50 plants have been recorded in one sq. metre area on open hill slopes.
Description:
Root stock elongate, stout, creeping, covered with withered leaf bases. Leaves 5 – 10 cm, coriaceous, serrate, base narrowed into a winged sheathing petiole. Scape stout, ascending, with or without bracts below the inflorescence. Spike 5 – 10 cm, many flowered , sub-hirsute. Bracts oblong or lanceolate. Sepals 5, 4 –7 mm, lanceolate, ciliate. Petals 5 – 8 mm long, ovate, ciliate. Capsule 1 – 1.5 cm long, ovoid. Fl./ Fr. : June – September.
Parts used commercially:
The drug Picrorhiza (Greek: picros means bitter; rhiza means root), obtained as dried rhizomes, consists of cylindrical, dark greyish brown pieces, usually 3 – 6 cm long and 0.5 – 1 cm dia., longitudinally wrinkled with annulations at the tip. It is a highly potential medicinal herb extensively used in various ailments and diseases both in India and abroad since ancient times. Both white and black varieties are used in herbal medicines and drugs. The drug is useful in cases of dropsy. It is stomachic, cardiac and cerebral tonic, antipyretic, anthelmintic, laxative in small doses, antiemetic, cathartic in large doses; useful in bilous fever, dyspepsia, urinary trouble, asthma, hiccough, blood circulation,burns, liver complaints, paralysis, epilepsy, ringworm infection, scabies and gout.
Commercial / EXIM data:
The plant is popular for its medicinal values in Persian and Arabian countries. The roots and rhizomes are the most sought after portion and as such the entire plant body gets deported due to uprooting, and the population has become threatened. The plant is regularly exported from India. According to IUCN experts 10 – 24 tonnes are exported per year. 10 kg of the plant had been seized at seaport, Chennai for attempt to export illegally to Malaysia on 01.10.02 violating EXIM Policy, CITES and WL(P) Act, 1972; Offense has also been detected at IGI and its Cargo, New Delhi for attempt to export 5 kgs of the plant to USA violating EXIM & CITES.
Adulterants :
The transeversely striated hollow rhizome apparently looks like those of Gentiana kurroo Royle and makes a good adulterant to the same.
Legal status:
1. Features in the Red Data Book of Indian Plants (Vol. 1, p. 350) by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.), Botanical Survey of India.
2. Included in the Appendix II of CITES .
Cypripedium himalaicum Rolfe
Class: Monocotyledonae
Order: Microspermae
Family: Orchidaceae
Distribution:
INDIA: Uttaranchal (Kumaon, Garhwal), Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim.
NEPAL, BHUTAN, south east TIBET.
Habitat:
The plant grows in sub-alpine to alpine climates between 3000 – 4300 m attitudes in association with Smilacina purpurea, Saussurea uniflora, Ribes luridum, R. takare, Rhododendron setosum, R. lepidotum, Dactylorhiza hatagirea, Podophyllum hexandrum, Salix spp., Morina nepalensis, Aster spp., Dryopteris barbigera, D. pulcherrima, etc. Fl.: July – September.
Population status / Cause for RET:
Endangered. The plant is on the verge of extinction from wild conditions due to over exploitation for its beautiful flowers having an unusual combination and also destruction of its habitat as a result of rapid urbanization. Grazing by domesticated animals is perhaps also responsible. These plants grow well in shady and airy conditions in the green houses. Only one plant could be recorded from Thangu and about 10 – 15 plants were observed between Thi La and Jakthang within ca. 6 sq. m. area during a survey from Thangu to Zema II (Lachen) via Thi La by the scientific staff of Botanical Survey of India.
Description:
Upto 30 cm. Scape ca. 12 cm long, pubescent, larger than leaves. Leaves 3 – 4, upto 8 x 5 cm, alternate, broadly elliptic to oblong Flowers solitary, upto 3 cm across, pink with pinkish brown veins, lip pendant forming a broadly obovoid pouch. Fl.: July – September.
Commercial / EXIM data:
100 kg of live C. himalaicum plants have been exported to US during 2002 (CITES Permit no. A2609).
Legal status:
1. Included in Red Data Book of Indian Plants (Vol.1, p. 245) by Nayar and Sastry (2000, Repr. ed.), Botanical Survey of India.
2. Included in the Appendix II of CITES.
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