Why in news
A study highlights the declining population of the Rhododendron wattii tree in Nagaland's Dzukou Valley.
In contrast to the plight of the Rhododendron, a new orchid species, Phalaenopsis wilsonii, was discovered in Manipur, near Dzukou Valley.
Rhododendron wattii tree
Endemic to Manipur and Nagaland, first collected in 1882-85 by Sir George Watt.
A small tree, growing up to 25 feet, with pink flowers.
Flowering occurs from February to April, and fruiting from April to December.
There is poor seedling survival, and the tree faces significant threats like wildfires and human intervention.
Classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and critically endangered in its natural habitat.
Rhododendron is a genus of flowering plants that includes about 1,000 species, primarily native to the temperate regions of Asia, North America, and Europe, as well as to the tropical regions of southeast Asia and northern Australia.
They are known for their showy clusters of large, brightly coloured flowers, and many species are popular ornamental plants in gardens and parks.
Rhododendrons are evergreen or deciduous shrubs or small trees, with woody stems and broad, leathery leaves.
COMMENTS