Plant of the Week – Cullenia exarillata Robyns

Cullenia exarillata Robyns (also known as Vediplavu or Mullenchankka) is a large, tree species endemic to the Western Ghats. It belongs to the family Malvaceae and is primarily found in tropical rainforests at elevations of 600 –1,200 m. This tree species plays an important role in forest ecology, providing habitat and food for a variety of wildlife, including primates, giant squirrels, birds, and bats which feed on its fruits and flowers. These trees are characterised by its buttressed trunk, leathery leaves, and cup-shaped flowers. Due to habitat loss and deforestation, it is now considered as Vulnerable (VU) as per IUCN 2024.2. Conservation efforts for this tree species is urgently needed to maintain a viable population. Green Ahalia, as part of the ABG programme is trying to collect mature seeds and create a good nursery stock, to address the ex – situ conservation of this threatened tree species.

For more details: greenahalia@ahhkv.org