Rare Wild Cousin of Garden Balsam Discovered

Recently, a small plant resembling Impatiens uncinata (garden balsam) found in Western Ghats was identified as a new species named Impatiens neo-uncinata.

  • The discovery was made during a floristic survey in the Agasthyamala biosphere reserve in Thiruvananthapuram district.
  • Initially mistaken for Impatiens uncinata, a detailed study revealed unique characteristics, leading to its classification as a new species.
  • Named Impatiens neo-uncinata by researchers, the plant's rarity and limited population suggest an 'Endangered' status.
  • Found exclusively in a single locality at elevations between 1,000 to 1,250 meters, its scarcity underscores conservation concerns.
  • Notable features include snowy white flowers with red stripes ....
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