Kurinji
Context:
A species of Kurinji (Strobilanthes sessilis) has recently bloomed in the Gudalur region of the Nilgiris.
This mass flowering which occurs after eight years is significant as it has taken place in one of Tamil Nadu's newly notified reserve forests.
Different Kurinji Species:
Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthiana):
This is the most famous species, known for its mass flowering once every 12 years.
It is a Shola grassland species found at high altitudes (above 1,300 metres) in the Western Ghats
Strobilanthes sessilis:
This is the species that bloomed in Gudalur.
It blooms once every eight years.
It is also a grassland species, but it occurs at lower altitudes than the Neelakurinji.
Other Varieties:
There are other 8 Kurinji species with different flowering cycles, such as Karinkurinji(blooms annually) and others that bloom every four, ten, or twelve years.
Biological Characteristics
Kurinji plants are known for flowering en masse, covering entire hillsides in shades of violet or blue
Monocarpic Nature:
The plants flower only once in their lifetime.
After flowering, the plant sets its seeds and then dies.
The next generation grows from these seeds, repeating the cycle.
This trait is also seen in some bamboo species
The mass flowering provides a large amount of nectar, serving as a feast for insects, butterflies, and especially the eastern honeybee.
Ecological Significance
Kurinji is considered an indicator of climate change. The plant is heavily dependent on specific microclimatic conditions for its survival.
A mass flowering indicates a healthy, well-conserved grassland, while disturbances lead to patchy flowering.
A key characteristic of the kurinji is its high level of endemism. There are about 60 species of kurinji that are endemic to the Western Ghats.
In India, 150 out of 450 of the world's kurinji species are found.
The Nilgiris alone is home to 33 varieties.
Threats
A major threat is the loss of grassland habitat due to the spread of invasive species (particularly black wattle).
Changes in microclimatic conditions adversely impact the plant's ability to germinate and flower
Tourism in these sensitive habitats can damage the plants and their ecosystem.