Plant of the Week – Myristica beddomei King

Myristica beddomei King. (also known as Kattu jathikka or Ceylon Nutmeg) is a rare and endemic tree species belonging to the family Myristicaceae. The tree typically grows in moist, shaded habitats and is known for its aromatic seeds, which resemble those of nutmeg. The trees are characterised by simple, alternate, elliptic-ovate leaves, Flowers unisexual, white; male flowers 10-20 together in short axillary dense clusters. Female flowers 3-4 in heads. Fruit a capsule, ovoid, aril orange red, encircling the seed, deeply cut down into many lobes. It is endemic to the Western Ghats of India. The seeds and oil is used by tribes to treat various ailments. Due to habitat destruction and overexploitation, the population of this plant species is declining, and it needs immediate action for its conservation. Green Ahalia, as part of the ABG programme is trying to protect this rare tree species in the campus.

For more details : greenahalia@ahhkv.org