This week Plant – Oldenlandia dineshii

In search of Oldenlandia dineshii, a recently reported plant.

This blue flowered eye-catching herb differ in appearance from its other sisters is spotted first from Gangothri hills, Nemmara. Probably an Onam gift by nature appearing in this season only. Its habitat is unique as herbal mat on moist rocky floor (Ephemeral Flush Vegetation) associated with insectivorous plants namely Drosera indica L. and Utricularia sp, semi – parasitic plants viz., Striga angustifolia and Rhamphicarpa fistulosa. Parasopubia delphiniifolia, Heliotropium rottleri Lehm., Bonnaya ciliata Murdannia dimorpha, Anisochilus carnosus and other profusely flowering species. Judging from the association we expected the species in similar locations at similar habitat and plant associations. Concerned about its rarity we started exploration trips to locate their presence in Palakkad gap region.

Our efforts yielded results as the team could find the species at Kokarnikunnu and Vamala Pallassena, etc. However the population size is extremely small. From our experience and judgement, we expect their presence at Pallavur Vamala too. At all locations their population is miniscule. This warrants urgent conservation action. Thus Green Ahalia team collected the species and introduced in our garden as an ex-situ conservation measure. While collecting, adequate numbers of individuals are left in situ for its natural regeneration.

For more information: greenahalia@ahhkv.org