Pedicularis rajeshiana

Pedicularis rajeshiana Latest News

Recently, researchers have discovered a new plant species, Pedipularis rajeshiana, in the high-altitude regions of Rohtang Pass in the western Himalayas region.

About Pedicularis rajeshiana

• It belongs to a group of plants known as "Louseworts", which are hemiparasitic, meaning they derive some nutrients from other plants while still performing photosynthesis.
• The plant was found at an altitude of 4,390 metres (about 14,400 feet) in the Rohtang Pass, a rugged and ecologically rich area in Himachal Pradesh.
• Pedicularis rajeshiana was spotted growing in small, scattered patches in shaded rocky slopes. 
• This discovery was made during a plant survey under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MOEF&CC) and the Botanical Survey of India, as part of the "Flora of India" project.

Features of Pedicularis rajeshiana

• India is home to 83 known species of Pedicularis, with 36 species found in the western Himalayas alone.
• Due to their parasitic nature and specific habitat requirements, many of these plants are endemic — found only in certain regions.
• The identification of Pedicularis rajeshiana adds to this rich biodiversity and highlights the ecological significance of high-altitude Himalayan ecosystems.

Pedicularis rajeshiana FAQs

Q1: What is Pedicularis used for?

Ans: Pedicularis appears as flowering flames of red in early spring. Traditionally used as a muscle relaxant and calming agent.

Q2: What is the common name for Pedicularis canadensis?

Ans: Pedicularis canadensis, called common lousewort or wood betony

Source: TOI