The research division of the Uttarakhand Forest Department is creating a rhododendron garden in Munsiyari, Pithoragarh district.
The rhododendron, known as "buransh" in the local dialect, is the state flower of Nagaland, the national tree of Nepal, and the state tree of Uttarakhand. The garden will be the nation's and the Himalayan region's first of its sort.
One of the primary flora species in the Himalayan ecosystem is the rhododendron. When in full bloom, the woodland is filled with vivid hues that draw a lot of insects and birds.
The rhododendron blossoms are used to make drinks with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities. Rhododendron leaves and blossoms are also used to treat respiratory, neurological, and digestive problems.
Sanjiv Chaturvedi, chief conservator of the research wing, said, “There are five rhododendron species in Uttarakhand and 40 in India. The research wing tried to collect all species at one place where people can come to see this beautiful tree and its flowers.”
The development of the garden, which is spread over one hectare, started four years ago. It houses 35 species of rhododendron.
According to him, the garden will be made into a tourist attraction. Chaturvedi said the garden was developed to create awareness about the flower, and its medicinal and literary aspects will be showcased.
A poem in Kumaoni by Sumitranandan Pant about rhododendrons is also displayed in the garden.
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