Saurauia Punduana

Nov. 27, 2023

Recently, the Saurauia Punduana plant was recorded for the first time in Manipur’s Tamenglong district.

About Saurauia Punduana:

  • It is a plant species that belongs to the Actinidiaceae family.
  • The flowers of Saurauia Punduana turn white to pink on maturity. Petals are pink, ovate to obovate, curled at the tip.
  • Its fruits are spherical, shining white, and are used in veterinary medicine.
  • Habitat: In subtropical forests, altitude 600-1800 m.
  • Its flowers are complete, bisexual, i.e., with functional male (androecium) and female (gynoecium),
  • It is a critically endangered species as per the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
  • Global Distribution: Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, and Myanmar.
  • In India, it is found in Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, and Tripura.
  • Threats: Saurauia species are susceptible to various insect pests, virus and fungi, affecting leaves, fruits and roots.