New Flowering Plant Species Impatiens nagorum Discovered in Nagaland

Key facts

• Botanists discovered a new flowering plant species named Impatiens nagorum in the Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary located in the Kiphire district of Nagaland.
• The research was conducted by experts from Kohima Science College, Nagaland University, University of Warsaw, and the Botanical Survey of India (BSI).
• The new species was formally described in the international journal Phytotaxa.
• Impatiens nagorum belongs to the genus Impatiens, commonly referred to as balsams or touch-me-nots, known for seed pods that burst open when touched.
• The plant was found at an elevation of 2,336 metres within moist temperate broadleaf forests and is currently known only from its type locality.
• The species grows up to 35 cm tall, features purple flowers, serrated leaves, and a lower sepal that tapers into a hooked spur.
• The specific epithet nagorum honours the indigenous Naga tribes of Nagaland.
• A population of approximately 20 individuals was recorded, suggesting the species is rare and potentially vulnerable.