Journal of Threatened Taxa | www.threatenedtaxa.org | 26 September 2025 | 17(9): 27407–27425

 

ISSN 0974-7907 (Online) | ISSN 0974-7893 (Print) 

https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.9690.17.9.27407-27425

#9690 | Received 17 February 2025 | Final received 22 July 2025 | Finally accepted 10 August 2025

 

 

Floral inventory and habitat significance of riparian ecosystem along the banks of Chithari River, Kasaragod, Kerala, India

 

Sreehari K. Mohan 1, Shyamkumar Puravankara 2  & P. Biju 3       

 

1 National Remote Sensing Centre, Indian Space Research Organisation, Balanagar, Hyderabad, Telengana 500009, India.

2 Manorama, Peralath, Haripuram P.O, Kasaragod, Kerala 671531, India.

3 Department of Botany, Government College, Kasaragod, Kerala 671123, India.

1 sreeharikmohan007@gmail.com (corresponding author), 2 shyam.arks@gmail.com, 3 bijuarimba@gmail.com

 

 

Editor: Anonymity requested. Date of publication: 26 September 2025 (online & print)

 

Citation: Mohan, S.K., S. Puravankara & P. Biju (2025). Floral inventory and habitat significance of riparian ecosystem along the banks of Chithari River, Kasaragod, Kerala, India. Journal of Threatened Taxa 17(9): 27407–27425. https://doi.org/10.11609/jott.9690.17.9.27407-27425

 

Copyright: © Mohan et al. 2025. Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License. JoTT allows unrestricted use, reproduction, and distribution of this article in any medium by providing adequate credit to the author(s) and the source of publication.

 

Funding: Zooreach Conservation Seed Grant (24ZCSG10P).

 

Competing interests: The authors declare no competing interests.

 

Author details: Sreehari K. Mohan is a scientist and a wildlife biologist who completed masters in forestry with specialization in wildlife science from Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur. His interest lies in studying the ecology of mammals, trees, and birds. He is the co-founder of ‘Myristika’ that aims to promote nature education and sustainable resource sharing. He currently works as Scientist ‘SC’ in National Remote Sensing Centre, Indian Space Research Organization, Hyderabad. Shyamkumar Puravankara is an architect by profession and naturalist by passion, he is the principal architect at Forms and Spaces Architectural Consultancy, based in Kasaragod District, Kerala. In addition to leading architectural projects with a focus on sustainable and context-sensitive design, he also serves as a Visiting Faculty at Srinivas Institute of Technology, Mangalore. Actively engaged in community and environmental initiatives, he is a member of the District Panchayat Biodiversity Management Committee and is one of the co-founder of Myristica. Dr. Biju P is an associate professor at Government College, Kasaragod, Kerala. He is a specialist in the taxonomy of aquatic plants with 28 research publications to their credit. A member of the IUCN Freshwater Plant Specialist Group under the Species Survival Commission, healso serves on the District Biodiversity Management Committee, Kasaragod, and is part of the Technical Support Group of the Kerala State Biodiversity Board for Kasaragod district. With a strong academic and research background, he contributes significantly to freshwater biodiversity conservation and education.        

 

Author contributions: All the three authors contributed equally toward field data collection, manuscript writing and proof reading.

 

Acknowledgments: We extend our sincere gratitude to Sanjay Molur and the Zoo Outreach Organization for the support through the ZCSG Grant, which made this work possible. We are deeply thankful to Pullur Periya Panchayath President Shri Aravindakshan, the Pullur Periya BMC members, and the District Panchayath BMC members for their invaluable assistance and encouragement throughout the fieldwork. Special thanks to Shri V.C. Balakrishnan, Shri Prakashan Nittoor, Shri Harish Babu M, Smt. Usha Ravindra for their consistent support. Shri Sreelal K Mohan, Smt. Avanthika Narayanan and Shri Anoop KM for their field support and data collection. We also acknowledge our ZCSG co-grantees, Sreebin and Vishnu Sreekara Bhat, for their collaborative efforts in the field. Finally, we are grateful to the anonymous reviewers whose insightful comments and suggestions greatly improved the quality of this publication.

 

 

 

Abstract: The Chithari River, spanning approximately 25 km in Kasaragod District, Kerala, originates from lateritic midlands rather than mountains, forming a riparian landscape. This study conducted a comprehensive floristic survey of its riparian zones, covering four major tributaries—Pullur Thodu, Para Thodu, Cherkkappara Thodu, and Pakkam Thodu—using line transects, and nested plots between October 2024–February 2025. A total of 340 plant species, representing 257 genera, and 75 families, were documented. Fabaceae (61 species) emerged as the dominant family, followed by Rubiaceae (20 species), Euphorbiaceae (17 species), and Moraceae (16 species). The recorded flora included 181 tree species, 45 shrubs, 69 herbs, and 45 climbers. Of these, 281 species were native, while 59 were exotic, comprising 17% of the total flora. Invasive species such as Lantana camara, Chromolaena odorata, and Eichhornia crassipes were found to impact various habitats significantly. The study also identified 68 endemic species, including 24 species endemic to the Western Ghats. Nine species were categorized under conservation concern, including Crinum malabaricum (Critically Endangered), Pterocarpus santalinus (Endangered), and Strobilanthes ciliatus (Vulnerable). The restricted distribution of Crinum malabaricum in lateritic streambeds of the midlands highlight the need for targeted conservation measures.

 

Keywords: Checklist, Crinum malabaricum, diversity, endemic species, invasive, Kanhangad, riverine, Strobilanthes ciliatus, survey, trees.

 

 

Introduction

 

Being one of the most diverse and dynamic floral habitats, riparian ecosystems form a crucial connection between land & water, playing an essential role in ecological functions, and human well-being (Davis et al. 2006; Balangen et al. 2021; Vincy & Brilliant 2024). Found along rivers, streams, lakes, and wetlands, riparian zones consist of vegetated habitats that serve as biodiversity corridors, providing habitat for a variety of plant, and animal species, and maintain the health of aquatic ecosystems (Corbacho et al. 2003; Leibowitz 2003).

The functions of riparian vegetation include filtering out chemical pollutants and acting as a natural buffer that prevents agricultural runoff from contaminating water bodies. These areas also contribute to essential processes such as organic matter decomposition, nutrient cycling, and pollution control, while supporting ecological food chains (Holmquist et al. 2011; Jonsson et al. 2017). The deep roots of large plants help reinforce banks, reducing the risk of erosion, and collapse (Perucca et al. 2007; Almadin 2020). Aquatic macrophytes, a vital component of riparian ecosystems, on the other hand, enhance habitat complexity by providing shelter, and food for invertebrates, fish, and waterbirds (Thomaz & da Cunha 2010). Additionally, these vegetation zones have influence over water temperature regulation, light availability, and affect nutrient cycles (Gregory et al. 1991; Naiman et al. 1993; Hood & Naiman 2000; Prach et al. 2001).

Studying floral association and diversity, regardless of habitat type, provides valuable knowledge for plant resource management (Cunningham et al. 2015). The southern Western Ghats, known for their unique endemic species, and rich plant life, emphasize the importance of riparian research (Vincy & Brilliant 2024). With increasing environmental changes and declining river health, a comprehensive approach to riparian zone conservation is necessary (Singh et al. 2021). Since plant species composition varies near water bodies, preserving riparian areas is crucial for maintaining landscape diversity (Sabo et al. 2005; Scalley et al. 2009).

Despite the considerable changes occuring to these habitats, which comprise wetlands and adjacent riparian systems, these areas still support the emergence of new species, as shown by the many new plant, and animal discoveries made in the past two decades (Sabu & Ambat 2007).

A high degree of disturbances such as human habitation, agricultural and industrial runoffs make the riparian zone susceptible to invasions by alien species that are generally early seral species (Richardson et al. 2007). Studies have shown that riparian plant community structure is connected to land use, and areas adjacent to agricultural, and urban stretches have been found to have high invasive species cover, and richness (Meek et al. 2010; Méndez-Toribio et al. 2014).

This  study is focused on the river Chithari that flows westwards from the Western Ghats — a global biodiversity hotspot (Myers et al. 2000). The Chithari River originates in the mid-lateritic zones of Kasaragod District. The riparian vegetation of the Chithari is heterogeneous and is undergoing gradual degradation owing to the growing human disturbances, agriculture, and excessive use of chemical fertilizers, and pesticides. Local administrations have developed participatory micro-plans through active engagement with community stakeholders for the selected tributaries of the river. These plans aim to address site-specific conservation needs, promote sustainable resource use by incorporating local knowledge.

Several faunal surveys and documentation efforts have been conducted in the Chithari River and its adjacent areas. The River Research Centre (2013) carried out a preliminary assessment of fish diversity, documenting 38 species from this riverine habitat. eBird, a citizen science-based birding platform, records the presence of 169 bird species from the estuarine habitat of the Chithari River (eBird 2025). The discovery of a new tree-spider crab, Leptarma biju, along the riverbanks further highlights its ecological significance (Ng & Devi 2020). Additionally, GIS-based shoreline studies have provided valuable insights into the dynamic nature of the Chithari estuary (Vijayan et al. 2009). Phytological studies in and around this riverine habitat remain limited. As an initial step toward addressing this gap, we surveyed the riparian vegetation, and compiled a floral inventory, the preliminary findings of which are presented in this study.

 

 

Materials and methods

 

The Chithari River (Figure 1), spanning approximately 25 km (River Research Centre 2013), is located in Kasaragod District, northern Kerala. Unlike most rivers in the region, it originates from the lateritic midlands rather than the mountains, resulting in a distinctive landscape. Instead of a single point of origin, the river forms from multiple smaller streams, locally known as Thodu, which emerge from different locations within the midlands. The longest parent stream, Pullur Thodu, originates near Kanjiradukkam (12.413° N, 75.159° E) at 150 m. It initially flows southwest through the sloping midlands for about 18 km before reaching the plains, where it gradually takes a U-turn near Pullur, and flows on the northwestern side. It then merges with the tributary from the northern side, attaining its full course before continuing for another 3 km and finally meeting the Arabian Sea at the Chithari estuary (12.342° N, 75.061° E).

The land use along the river varies throughout its course. In its upper stretches, the initial streams flow through small hills, valleys, lateritic plains, and patches of forest. As it progresses, human-dominated landscapes, including plantations of coconut, rubber, arecanut, paddy fields, and sacred groves begin to influence its surroundings. Near its mouth, the river forms an estuarine habitat characterized by mangroves, marshes, estuarine creeks, and mudflats.

Four major tributaries were identified for the study. They are Pullur Thodu, Para Thodu, Cherkkappara Thodu, and Pakkam Thodu (Figure 2). These were sampled in October 2024–February 2025. To document the riparian flora, 200 m longitudinal transects were randomly established along the course of four tributaries (Khumbongmayum et al. 2005). Each transect extended 5 m on either sides from the stream edge (Nagarajan & Bhasker 2023), and all tree species, woody climbers, and invasive plants within these belt transects were recorded. Additionally, trees observed opportunistically along the stream banks—outside the established transects—were also documented. This supplementary approach aimed to ensure a more comprehensive species inventory, especially for sparsely distributed or habitat-specific species that may not occur within the fixed transects. While the transects formed the primary framework for systematic sampling, opportunistic observations enhanced the overall floristic richness documented. Transects were established along the final stretch of the river which comprise of estuarine and coastal habitats. A total of 15 transects were considered, which were evenly spread across the tributaries and the final stretch of the river (Figure 2).  At the start of each transect, a 5 × 5 m square plot was laid out to document shrub species. A 2 × 2 m subplot, nested within this larger plot, and sharing the same starting corner (Figure 2), was used to record herbaceous species (Khumbongmayum et al. 2005; Nath et al. 2005; Jayakumar et al. 2011). The elevation across the study area ranged 0–160 m.

The observed plants were identified with the aid of regional floras (Hooker 1872–1897; Gamble 1915–1935; Sasidharan 2004, 2007, 2010; eFlora Kerala 2025). A checklist was prepared based on the APG IV system of classification and the families were arranged alphabetically with representative species within it. Information such as, habit for each species, endemism (eFlora Kerala 2025), and IUCN Red List status for the relevant taxon is also provided.

 

 

Results

 

During the present study, a total of 340 plant species belonging to 257 genera, and 75 families were recorded (Table 3, Images 1–32). It was observed that 43% of the recorded species belonged to seven dominant families, namely: Fabaceae with 61 species, Rubiaceae with 20 species, Euphorbiaceae with 17 species, Moraceae with 16 species, Acanthaceae with 12 species, Apocynaceae with 11 species, and Asteraceae with 10 species (Figure 3). The study documented 181 species of trees, 45 species of shrubs, 68 species of herbs, and 46 species of climbers along the riparian stretches of the Chithari River (Figure 4). Among the 340 species recorded, 281 were recognised as native, while 59 were non-native (Table 3). Also, 308 species were found to be dicots, 29 species were monocots, and three species of pteridophytes. The study site has also shown significant diversity in terms of endemic species. A total of 68 species are endemic to this region, out of which 24 species are endemic to the Western Ghats (Table 1). This implies 7% of the total plants encountered in the study area are Western Ghats endemic species.

Nine species from the study area were found to be of critical conservation concern (Table 3). Crinum malabaricum is classified as ‘Critically Endangered’ (Lansdown 2016). Six species fall under the ‘Vulnerable’ category, including Strobilanthes ciliatus (Saha et al. 2015), Vateria indica (Dhyani & Barstow 2020), Aporosa cardiosperma (World Conservation Monitoring Centre 2018), Saraca asoca, Ochreinauclea missionis (Barstow & Dhyani 2020), and Santalum album (Arunkumar 2019). Pterocarpus marsupium is classified as ‘Near Threatened’ (Barstow 2017). Critically Endangered and Western Ghats endemic Crinum malabaricum was observed with severely restricted distribution in the upper course of the river. The habitat was observed to be seasonal streams running through plantations and backyards located in lateritic area.

Fifteen invasive species were recorded from the study area (Table 2). Among them, Lantana camara and Chromolaena odorata were observed to severely affect open areas, while Sphagneticola trilobata, and Mikania micrantha had significant infestations in paddy fields, and along plantation edges. Salvinia molesta and Eichhornia crassipes were found to invade water bodies, though the extent of invasion by Eichhornia crassipes was relatively lower compared to similar habitats in urban landscapes nearby.

 

 

Discussion

 

The Chithari River’s origin from lateritic midlands, as opposed to mountainous regions, contributes to its distinctive riparian landscape. This setting provides a mosaic of habitats, including mangroves, marshes, estuarine creeks, and mudflats near its mouth. The discovery of Leptarma biju, a new tree-spider crab species along the riverbanks, further emphasizes its ecological uniqueness (Ng & Devi 2020).

The floristic survey of the Chithari River’s riparian zones revealed a diverse assemblage of plants. The dominance of Fabaceae aligns with studies in other riparian ecosystems, such as the Meenachil River basin, where Fabaceae was the most represented family (Vincy et al. 2015).

The presence of exotic plants constituting approximately 17% of the total flora, poses ecological concerns. Invasive alien plant species are recognized as major drivers of biodiversity loss, affecting ecosystem services, and socio-economic conditions (Rai & Singh 2020). In the Chithari River and adjacent habitats, invasive plants have aggressively colonized various habitats, including open areas, paddy fields, plantation edges, and aquatic habitats. Such invasions suppress native vegetation through resource competition, allelopathy, and habitat modification (Rai & Singh 2020). Aquatic weeds such as Eichhornia crassipes were relatively lower compared to similar habitats in urban landscapes nearby, probably due to the lower levels of organic nutrients, and sewage disposal in the river. This assumption should be validated with water quality testing to arrive at a decision.

The detection of eight Red Listed species underscores the ecological significance of the Chithari River’s riparian habitats. Crinum malabaricum, classified as ‘Critically Endangered’, was observed with a severely restricted distribution in the upper course of the river. The occurrences of four species of Strobilanthes which are endemic to Western Ghats emphasize the need for conserving the habitat. Strobilanthes ciliatus, one among them is categorized as ‘Vulnerable’ as per the latest assessment of IUCN Red List. Similarly, the presence of other vulnerable species, such as Vateria indica, recorded from one of the sacred groves in the habitat, highlights the need for targeted conservation measures to prevent further population decline (Nagarajan & Bhaskar 2023).

The riparian zones of the Chithari River support a unique and diverse flora, including several species of conservation concern. The proliferation of invasive species poses a significant threat to its ecological balance. Ensuring the long-term sustainability of this ecologically significant region requires tailored conservation and management strategies. A comprehensive understanding of the river’s flora, coupled with ecosystem-based conservation approaches, is essential. Effective management should include regular monitoring, public awareness initiatives, and targeted control measures for invasive species to safeguard the ecological integrity of this vital riparian ecosystem.

 

 

Table 1. Endemic species recorded from the study area.

 

Endemic region

Number of species

1

Western Ghats

24

2

Western Ghats and Sri Lanka

2

3

Southern India

4

4

Southern India and Sri Lanka

4

5

Peninsular India

10

6

Peninsular India and Sri Lanka

7

7

India

4

8

India and Sri Lanka

13

 

Total

68

 

 

Table 2. Invasive species recorded from the study area.

 

Species

Local name

Family

1

Alternanthera brasiliana

Chemcheera

Amaranthaceae

2

Ageratum conyzoides

Kumminnipacha, Murianpacha

Asteraceae

3

Chromolaena odorata

Communist pacha

Asteraceae

4

Mikania micrantha

Dhrutharashtra pacha

Asteraceae

5

Sphagneticola trilobata

Kammalpoo

Asteraceae

6

Synedrella nodiflora

Mudiyan Pacha

Asteraceae

7

Camonea umbellata

Kolavaravalli, Koravalli

Convolvulaceae

8

Ipomoea triloba

 

Convolvulaceae

9

Calopogonium mucunoides

Thottapayar

Fabaceae

10

Centrosema pubescens

Kattupayar, Poombattapayar

Fabaceae

11

Eragrostis unioloides

Avilpullu, Karayampullu

Poaceae

12

Polytrias indica

Chenkodipullu

Poaceae

13

Eichhornia crassipes

Kulavaazha

Pontederiaceae

14

Salvinia molesta

African Payal

Salviniaceae

15

Lantana camara

Arippoo, Gulami, Konginipoo

Verbenaceae

 

 

Table 3. Checklist of floral inventory of Chithari river, Kasaragod, Kerala.

 

Species

Local name

Family

Habit

Nativity

IUCN status

1

Acanthus ilicifolius L.

Chullikkandal

Acanthaceae

Shrub

 

 

2

Asystasia gangetica (L.) T.Anderson in Thwaites

Thuppal pottas

Acanthaceae

Herb

 

 

3

Justicia gendarussa Burm.f.

Vatamkolli

Acanthaceae

Shrub

 

 

4

Lepidagathis incurva Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don

 

Acanthaceae

Herb

 

 

5

Lepidagathis sp.

 

Acanthaceae

Herb

 

 

6

Nicoteba trinervia (Vahl) Lindau

 

Acanthaceae

Herb

WG

 

7

Phaulopsis dorsiflora (Retz.) Sant.

 

Acanthaceae

Herb

 

 

8

Rostellularia procumbens (L.) Nees in A.P.de Candolle

 

Acanthaceae

Herb

 

 

9

Rungia pectinata (L.) Nees in DC.

 

Acanthaceae

Herb

 

 

10

Strobilanthes ciliata Nees in Wall.

Cherukurunji

Acanthaceae

Shrub

WG

VU

11

Strobilanthes integrifola (Dalz.) Kuntze

Poomalakurunhi

Acanthaceae

Shrub

WG

 

12

Strobilanthes jomyi P.Biju

Jomyi kurunhi

Acanthaceae

Shrub

WG

 

13

Strobilanthes sp.

 

Acanthaceae

Shrub

 

 

14

Alternanthera brasiliana (L.) Kuntze

Chemcheera

Amaranthaceae

Herb

EX

 

15

Alternanthera sp.

 

Amaranthaceae

Herb

 

 

16

Cyathula prostrata (L.) Blume

Cherukadaladi, Chuvannakadaladi

Amaranthaceae

Herb

 

 

17

Crinum malabaricum Lekhak & S.R.Yadav

Periya polathaali

Amaryllidaceae

Herb

WG

CR

18

Anacardium occidentale L.

Parankimavu, Kashumavu

Anacardiaceae

Tree

EX

 

19

Buchanania axillaris (Desr.) Ramamoorthy in Saldanha & Nicolson

Kulamavu

Anacardiaceae

Tree

ISL

 

20

Holigarna arnottiana Hook.f.

Cheral

Anacardiaceae

Tree

WG

 

21

Lannea coromandelica (Houtt.) Merr.

Kalashu, Uthi

Anacardiaceae

Tree

 

 

22

Mangifera indica L.

Mavu

Anacardiaceae

Tree

 

 

23

Spondias pinnata (L.f.) Kurz

Ambazham

Anacardiaceae

Tree

 

 

24

Annona muricata L.

Mullatha

Annonaceae

Tree

EX

 

25

Annona reticulata L.

Seethapazham

Annonaceae

Tree

EX

 

26

Annona squamosa L.

Ramapazham

Annonaceae

Tree

EX

 

27

Cananga odorata (Lam.) Hook.f. & Thoms. Fl. Ind. 130. 1855 & in Hook. f.

Kanakamaram

Annonaceae

Tree

EX

 

28

Miliusa tomentosa (Roxb.) Finet & Gagnep.

Kanakaitha

Annonaceae

Tree

 

 

29

Monoon longifolium (Sonn.) B.Xue & R.M.K.Saunders

Aranamaram

Annonaceae

Tree

EX

 

30

Centella asiatica (L.) Urban in Mart.

Muthil

Apiaceae

Herb

 

 

31

Alstonia scholaris (L.) R.Br.

Ezhilampala

Apocynaceae

Tree

 

 

32

Carissa carandas L.

Karandacherry

Apocynaceae

Shrub

 

 

33

Cosmostigma cordatum (Poir.) M.R.Almeida

Kariveppilakurinji

Apocynaceae

Climber

 

 

34

Gymnema inodorum (Lour.) M.R. & S.M. Almeida  

Peenarivalli

Apocynaceae

Climber

 

 

35

Holarrhena pubescens (Buch.-Ham.) Wall. ex G.Don

Kudakappala

Apocynaceae

Tree

 

 

36

Ichnocarpus frutescens (L.) R.Br. in  Ait.f.

Palvalli

Apocynaceae

Climber

 

 

37

Kamettia caryophyllata (Roxb.) Nicolson & Suresh

Narumarathivu

Apocynaceae

Climber

WG

 

38

Rauvolfia serpentina (L.) Benth. ex Kurz

Sarppaghandhi

Apocynaceae

Herb

 

 

39

Rauvolfia tetraphylla (L.) Benth. ex Kurz

Pambumkolli

Apocynaceae

Herb

EX

 

40

Tabernaemontana alternifolia L.

Kundalappala

Apocynaceae

Tree

WG

 

41

Wrightia tinctoria (Roxb.) R.Br.

Danthappala

Apocynaceae

Tree

 

 

42

Cryptocoryne spiralis (Retz.) C.E.C.Fisch. ex Wydler

 

Araceae

Herb

IN

 

43

Lagenandra toxicaria Dalz. var. toxicaria; Hook. f.

 

Araceae

Herb

SI

 

44

Pothos scandens L.

Anapparuva, Paruvakodi

Araceae

Climber

 

 

45

Schefflera sp.

Ettilamaram

Araliaceae

Tree

 

 

46

Acmella calva (DC.) R.K. Jansen

Eripacha

Asteraceae

Herb

 

 

47

Ageratum conyzoides L.

Kumminnipacha, Murianpacha

Asteraceae

Herb

EX

 

48

Blumea axillaris (Lam.) DC.

 

Asteraceae

Herb

 

 

49

Blumea sp.

 

Asteraceae

Herb

 

 

50

Chromolaena odorata (L.) King &  Robins.

Communist pacha

Asteraceae

Shrub

EX

 

51

Eclipta prostrata (L.) L.

Kayyoonni

Asteraceae

Herb

 

 

52

Elephantopus scaber L.

Aanayadi, Aanachuvadi

Asteraceae

Herb

 

 

53

Mikania micrantha Kunth

Dhrutharashtra pacha

Asteraceae

Climber

EX

 

54

Sphagneticola trilobata (L.) Pruski

Kammalpoo

Asteraceae

Herb

EX

 

55

Synedrella nodiflora (L.) Gaertn.

Mudiyan Pacha

Asteraceae

Herb

EX

 

56

Avicennia marina (Forssk.) Vierh. in  Denkschr.

Chakkappoo

Avicenniaceae

Tree

 

 

57

Avicennia officinalis L.

Uppatti

Avicenniaceae

Tree

 

 

58

Dolichandrone spathacea (L.f.) K.Schum.

Neerpongiliyam

Bignonaceae

Tree

PI

 

59

Oroxylum indicum (L.) Benth. ex Kurz

Palakapayyani

Bignonaceae

Tree

SISL

 

60

Pajanelia longifolia (Willd.) K.Schum. in mplete this.Engl. & Prantl

Payyani

Bignonaceae

Tree

 

 

61

Spathodea campanulata P.Beauv.

Panchasarakkaimaram

Bignonaceae

Tree

EX

 

62

Stereospermum colais (Buch.-Ham. ex  Dillw.) Mabb.

Pathiri

Bignonaceae

Tree

 

 

63

Tecoma stans (L.) Kunth

Manja arali

Bignonaceae

Tree

EX

 

64

Bombax ceiba L.

Mullilavu

Bombacaceae

Tree

 

 

65

Ceiba pentandra (L.) Gaertn

Panjimaram

Bombacaceae

Tree

EX

 

66

Cordia dichotoma G.Forst.

Naruveli

Boraginaceae

Tree

 

 

67

Lobelia alsinoides Lam.

Kakkapoo (not in our part )

Campanulaceae

Herb

 

 

68

Casuarina equisetifolia L.

Kaattadi

Casuarinaceae

Tree

EX

 

69

Lophopetalum wightianum Arn.

Venkotta

Celastraceae

Tree

 

 

70

Pristimera arnottiana (Wight) R.H.Archer

Mothirakurandy, Muttukorandy

Celastraceae

Climber

SI

 

71

Calophyllum inophyllum L.

Punna

Clusiaceae

Tree

 

 

72

Garcinia gummi-gutta Wight

Kudampuli

Clusiaceae

Tree

SISL

 

73

Garcinia indica (Thouars) Choisy in DC.

Kokkum

Clusiaceae

Tree

WG

 

74

Combretum latifolium Blume

Manjalvalli, Plakkodi, Purakkodi

Combretaceae

Climber

 

 

75

Getonia floribunda Roxb.

Pullanni, Pullanji

Combretaceae

Climber

 

 

76

Terminalia arjuna (Roxb. ex DC.) Wight & Arn.

Thanni

Combretaceae

Tree

 

 

77

Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb.

Thallithenga, Badam

Combretaceae

Tree

EX

 

78

Terminalia catappa L.

Neermaruthu

Combretaceae

Tree

ISL

 

79

Terminalia elliptica Willd.

Karimaruthu

Combretaceae

Tree

ISL

 

80

Terminalia paniculata Roth

Pullamaruthu

Combretaceae

Tree

PI

 

81

Camonea umbellata (L.) A.R.Simoes &  Staples

Kolavaravalli, Koravalli

Convolvulaceae

Climber

EX

 

82

Camonea vitifolia (Burm. f.) A.R.Simoes & Staples

Manja vayaravalli

Convolvulaceae

Climber

 

 

83

Erycibe paniculata Roxb.

Erumathali, Irimpiyathali

Convolvulaceae

Climber

IN

 

84

Hewittia malabarica (L.) Suresh in  Nicolson et al.

Ohanamvalli, Vattapoomthani

Convolvulaceae

Climber

 

 

85

Ipomoea triloba L.

 

Convolvulaceae

Climber

EX

 

86

Xenostegia tridentata (L.) Austin &  Staples

Cheruvayera, Prasarani

Convolvulaceae

Herb

 

 

87

Hellenia speciosa (Koenig) S.R.Dutta

Naayi Karimbu, Aanakoova, Aanappoo

Costaceae

Herb

 

 

88

Solena amplexicaulis (Lam.) Gandhi in  Saldanha & Nicolson

Kuvachakka

Cucurbitaceae

Climber

 

 

89

Trichosanthes tricuspidata Lour.

Kakkathondi

Cucurbitaceae

Climber

 

 

90

Cyperus haspan L.

 

Cyperaceae

Herb

EX

 

91

Scleria sp.

 

Cyperaceae

Herb

 

 

92

Dillenia pentagyna Roxb.

Nayipunna

Dilleniaceae

Tree

 

 

93

Vateria indica L.

Vellapayin

Dipterocarpaceae

Tree

WG

VU

94

Dryopteris sp.

 

Dryopteridaceae

Herb

 

 

95

Diospyros buxifolia (Blume) Hiern

Elicheviyan

Ebenaceae

Tree

 

 

96

Diospyros candolleana Wight

Karimaram

Ebenaceae

Tree

PI

 

97

Elaeocarpus munroi (Wight) Mast. in  Hook.f.

Kalrudraksham

Elaeocarpaceae

Tree

WG

 

98

Elaeocarpus serratus L.

Kaara

Elaeocarpaceae

Tree

 

 

99

Eriocaulon dalzellii Korn.

choothu

Eriocaulaceae

Herb

SI

 

100

Eriocaulon sp.

 

Eriocaulaceae

Herb

 

 

101

Acalypha indica L.

Naarchikkadu

Euphorbiaceae

Herb

 

 

102

Antidesma montanum Blume

Asharippuli

Euphorbiaceae

Tree

 

 

103

Aporosa cardiosperma (Gaertn.) Merr.

Vetti

Euphorbiaceae

Tree

PISL

VU

104

Croton persimilis Muell.Arg.

Pongalam, Somaraji

Euphorbiaceae

Tree

 

 

105

Euphorbia deccanensis V.S.Raju

Mulachurathi

Euphorbiaceae

Herb

WG

 

106

Euphorbia hirta L.

Nilappala

Euphorbiaceae

Herb

EX

 

107

Euphorbia thymifolia L.

Chitrapala

Euphorbiaceae

Herb

 

 

108

Falconeria insignis Royle

Kannampotti

Euphorbiaceae

Tree

 

 

109

Homonoia riparia Lour.

Puzhavanchi

Euphorbiaceae

Shrub

 

 

110

Macaranga peltata (Roxb.) Muell.Arg. in DC.

Vatta

Euphorbiaceae

Tree

ISL

 

111

Mallotus nudiflorus (L.) Kulju & Welzen

Naikkumbil

Euphorbiaceae

Tree

 

 

112

Mallotus philippensis (Lam.) Muell.Arg.

Sindhoori

Euphorbiaceae

Tree

 

 

113

Mallotus tetracoccus (Roxb.) Kurz

Vattakkumbil

Euphorbiaceae

Tree

 

 

114

Microstachys chamaelea (L.) Muell.Arg.

Kodiyavannakku, Njettavanakku

Euphorbiaceae

Herb

 

 

115

Paracroton pendulus (Hassk.) Miq.

Vellamaram

Euphorbiaceae

Tree

WGSL

 

116

Ricinus communis L.

Aavanakk

Euphorbiaceae

Shrub

EX

 

117

Abrus melanospermus Hassk.

vella kunnikuru, Valiya kattumuthira

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

118

Abrus precatorius L.

Kunnikkuru

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

119

Abrus pulchellus Wall. ex Thwaites

Valiya Kattumuthira

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

120

Acacia auriculiformis A.Cunn. ex Benth. in Hook.'s London J. Bot. 1: 377. 1842; V.T.Antony

Acacia

Fabaceae

Tree

EX

 

121

Acacia mangium Willd.

Mangium

Fabaceae

Tree

EX

 

122

Acrocarpus fraxinifolius Wight & Arn.

Kurangadi

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

123

Adenanthera pavonina L.

Manjadi

Fabaceae

Tree

EX

 

124

Albizia amara (Roxb.) Boivin

Nenmenivaka

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

125

Albizia chinensis (Osbeck) Merr.

Pottavaka

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

126

Albizia lebbeck (L.) Benth. in Hook.'s London J. Bot. 3: 87. 1844; Baker in Hook. f.

Kunnivaka

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

127

Albizia odoratissima (L. f.) Benth. in Hook.'s London J. Bot. 3: 88. 1844; Baker in Hook.f.

Pulivaka

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

128

Albizia procera (Roxb.) Benth. in Hook.'s London J. Bot. 3: 89. 1844; Baker in Hook.f.

Vellavaka

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

129

Bauhinia malabarica Roxb.

 

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

130

Bauhinia purpurea L.

Violet Mandaram

Fabaceae

Tree

EX

 

131

Bauhinia scandens L. var. anguina (Roxb.) Ohashi

Pambuvalli

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

132

Caesalpinia crista L.

Aattuparanda

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

133

Caesalpinia pulcherrima (L.) Swartz

Rajamalli

Fabaceae

Shrub

EX

 

134

Calopogonium mucunoides Desv.

Thottapayar

Fabaceae

Climber

EX

 

135

Cassia fistula L.

Kanikkonna

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

136

Centrosema molle Benth.

Kattupayar

Fabaceae

Climber

EX

 

137

Centrosema pubescens Benth.

Kattupayar, Poombattapayar

Fabaceae

Climber

EX

 

138

Crotalaria pallida Dryand. var. obovata (G. Don) Polhill

Kilukkampetti

Fabaceae

Shrub

 

 

139

Dalbergia horrida (Dennst.) Mabb. var. glabrescens (Prain) Thoth. & K.K.N. Nair

 

Fabaceae

Climber

WG

 

140

Dalbergia lanceolaria L. f., Suppl. Pl. 316. 1781

Velleetti

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

141

Dalbergia latifolia Roxb., Corom. Pl. 2: 7

Eetti

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

142

Delonix regia (Boj. ex Hook.) Rafin.

Gulmohar

Fabaceae

Tree

EX

 

143

Derris sp.

 

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

144

Derris trifoliata Lour., Fl. Cochinch. 433. 1790; Manilal & Sivar.

Kammattivalli

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

145

Erythrina stricta Roxb., Fl. Ind. 3: 251. 1832; Baker in Hook.f.

Mullumurikku

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

146

Erythrina variegata L. in Stickman

Murikku

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

147

Flemingia grahamiana Wight & Arn.

 

Fabaceae

Shrub

 

 

148

Geissaspis tenella Benth. var. tenella; Baker in Hook. f.

 

Fabaceae

Herb

WG

 

149

Gliricidia sepium (Jacq.) Kunth ex Walp.

Sheemakonna

Fabaceae

Tree

EX

 

150

Grona heterocarpa (L.) H.Ohashi & K.Ohashi var.

Nilathuvara

Fabaceae

Shrub

 

 

151

Hultholia mimosoides Lam.

Komullu

Fabaceae

Shrub

 

 

152

Humboldtia brunonis Wall.

 

Fabaceae

Tree

WG

 

153

Indigofera tinctoria L.

Neelamari

Fabaceae

Shrub

 

 

154

Mimosa pudica L.

Thottavadi

Fabaceae

Herb

EX

 

155

Mucuna bracteata DC. ex Kurz

Thottapayar

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

156

Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC. var. hirsuta (Wight & Arn.) Wilmot-Dear

Naikkurana

Fabaceae

Climber

WG

 

157

Neonotonia wightii (Graham ex Wight & Arn.) Lackey

Kattavarakkavalli

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

158

Pleurolobus gangeticus J.St.Hil. in Nouv. Bull. Soc. Philom. 3: 192. 1812

Orila

Fabaceae

Herb

 

 

159

Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre

Ungu

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

160

Pseudarthria viscida (L.) Wight & Arn.

Moovila

Fabaceae

Shrub

PISL

 

161

Pterocarpus marsupium Roxb.

Venga

Fabaceae

Tree

ISL

NT

162

Pterocarpus santalinus L.f.

Rakthachandanam

Fabaceae

Tree

PI

EN

163

Pueraria phaseoloides (Roxb.) Benth.

Thottapayar

Fabaceae

Climber

EX

 

164

Pycnospora lutescens (Poir.) Schindl.

 

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

165

Samanea saman (Jacq.) Merr.

Mazhamaram

Fabaceae

Tree

EX

 

166

Saraca asoca (Roxb.) de Wilde

Asokam

Fabaceae

Tree

 

VU

167

Senegalia caesia (L.) Maslin

Inja

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

168

Senegalia catechu (L.f.) P. Hurter & Mabb. in Mabb.

Karingali

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

169

Senegalia torta (Roxb.) Maslin

Inja

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

170

Senna septemtrionalis (Viv.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby

Kattukonna

Fabaceae

Shrub

WG

 

171

Senna tora (L.) Roxb.

Thakara

Fabaceae

Shrub

EX

 

172

Senna uniflora (Mill.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby

Thakara

Fabaceae

Shrub

EX

 

173

Smithia conferta Smith in Rees

Elakanni

Fabaceae

Herb

 

 

174

Spatholobus sp.

 

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

175

Tamarindus indica L.

Valan puli

Fabaceae

Tree

EX

 

176

Teramnus mollis Benth.

 

Fabaceae

Climber

 

 

177

Xylia xylocarpa (Roxb.) Taub.

Irul

Fabaceae

Tree

 

 

178

Flacourtia jangomas (Lour.) Raeusch.

Vayamkatha

Flacourtiaceae

Tree

EX

 

179

Flacourtia montana Graham

Charalpazham

Flacourtiaceae

Tree

IN

 

180

Hydnocarpus pentandrus (Buch.-Ham.) Oken

Marotti

Flacourtiaceae

Tree

WG

 

181

Canscora diffusa (Vahl) R.Br. ex Roem. & Schult.

Jeerakapullu

Gentianaceae

Herb

 

 

182

Blyxa aubertii L.C.Rich.

 

Hydrocharitaceae

Herb

 

 

183

Anisomeles indica (L.) Kuntze

Chedayan, Karithumba

Lamiaceae

Herb

 

 

184

Clerodendrum infortunatum L.

Peruvu, Vattapparuvalam

Lamiaceae

Shrub

 

 

185

Mesosphaerum suaveolens (L.) Poit.

Naarchikkadu

Lamiaceae

Herb

EX

 

186

Pogostemon heyneanus Benth. in Wall.

 

Lamiaceae

Shrub

 

 

187

Stachytarpheta jamaicensis (L.) Vahl

Kadapananth, Kattupunnuthu

Lamiaceae

Shrub

EX

 

188

Tectona grandis L.f.

Thekk

Lamiaceae

Tree

 

 

189

Vitex negundo L.

Karinochi

Lamiaceae

Shrub

EX

 

190

Cinnamomum malabatrum (Burm.f.) Blume

Vayana

Lauraceae

Tree

WG

 

191

Cinnamomum verum Presl

Karuvappatta

Lauraceae

Tree

SISL

 

192

Litsea coriacea (Heyne ex Meisn.) Hook.f.

Maravettithali

Lauraceae

Tree

PI

 

193

Persea macarantha (Heyne ex Meisn.) Hook.f.

Kulamavu

Lauraceae

Tree

PISL

 

194

Barringtonia acutangula (L.) Gaertn.

Neerpezhu

Lecythidaceae

Tree

 

 

195

Careya arborea Pl. Corom. t. 218. 1811; Hook.f.

Pezhu

Lecythidaceae

Tree

 

 

196

Senna alata (L.) Roxb.

Rajamalli

Leguminosae

Shrub

EX

 

197

Gloriosa superba L.

Mendonni

Liliaceae

Climber

 

 

198

Hugonia mystax L.

Mothiravalli, Kaarthotti, Modirakkanni

Linaceae

Climber

ISL

 

199

Fagraea ceilanica Thunb.

Modakam

Loganiaceae

Tree

 

 

200

Strychnos nux-vomica L.

Kanjiram

Loganiaceae

Tree

 

 

201

Strychnos potatorum L. f.

Thettamparal

Loganiaceae

Tree

PISL

 

202

Strychnos wallichiana Steud. ex A.DC. in DC.

Vallikanjiram

Loganiaceae

Climber

 

 

203

Lygodium flexuosum (L.) Sw.

 

Lygodiaceae

Climber

 

 

204

Helicteres isora L.

Edampiri-Valampiri, Eeswaramoori

Malvaceae

Shrub

 

 

205

Hibiscus hispidissimus Griff.

mathi puli

Malvaceae

Shrub

EX

 

206

Hibiscus surattensis L.

Mampazhaya, Pulichai

Malvaceae

Shrub

EX

 

207

Hibiscus tiliaceus L.

Veliparuthi

Malvaceae

Tree

 

 

208

Thespesia populnea (L.) Soland. ex Correa

Poovarashu

Malvaceae

Tree

 

 

209

Triumfetta rhomboidea Jacq.

Aadaiotti, Paramutti

Malvaceae

Shrub

 

 

210

Urena lobata L.

Cheeli, Kuruvachedi

Malvaceae

Shrub

 

 

211

Melastoma malabathricum L.

Athirani

Melastomataceae

Shrub

 

 

212

Memecylon umbellatum Burm.f.

Kayamboo

Melastomataceae

Tree

PISL

 

213

Aglaia elaeagnoidea (A.Juss.) Benth.

Poonjava

Meliaceae

Tree

 

 

214

Azadirachta indica A.Juss.

Veppu

Meliaceae

Tree

EX

 

215

Melia dubia Cav.

Malaveppu

Meliaceae

Tree

 

 

216

Naregamia alata Wight & Arn.

Nilanaragam

Meliaceae

Herb

PI

 

217

Swietenia macrophylla King in Hook.

Mahogany

Meliaceae

Tree

EX

 

218

Toona ciliata M. Roem.

Chandanavembu

Meliaceae

Tree

 

 

219

Cyclea peltata (Burm. f.) Hook.f. & Thoms.

Padakizhangu, Padathali

Menispermaceae

Climber

ISL

 

220

Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.

Plavu

Moraceae

Tree

 

 

221

Artocarpus hirsutus Lam.

Anjili

Moraceae

Tree

WG

 

222

Artocarpus zeylanicus (F.M.Jarrett) E.M.Gardner & Zerega

Ondampuli

Moraceae

Tree

SISL

 

223

Ficus arnottiana (Miq.) Miq.

Kallarayal

Moraceae

Tree

ISL

 

224

Ficus benghalensis L.

Peral

Moraceae

Tree

EX

 

225

Ficus callosa Willd.

Kallal

Moraceae

Tree

 

 

226

Ficus exasperata Vahl

Parakam

Moraceae

Tree

 

 

227

Ficus heterophylla L. f.

Vallitherakam

Moraceae

Shrub

 

 

228

Ficus hispida L.f.

Erumanaa

Moraceae

Tree

 

 

229

Ficus microcarpa L. f.

Ithi

Moraceae

Tree

 

 

230

Ficus racemosa L.

Athi

Moraceae

Tree

 

 

231

Ficus religiosa L.

Arayal

Moraceae

Tree

EX

 

232

Ficus tinctoria G.Forst.

Ithimott

Moraceae

Tree

 

 

233

Ficus tsjahela Burm.f.

Chela

Moraceae

Tree

PISL

 

234

Ficus virens Aiton var. dispersa Chantaras.

Cherala

Moraceae

Tree

 

 

235

Streblus asper Lour.

Paruvamaram

Moraceae

Tree

 

 

236

Moringa oleifera Lam.

Muringa

Moringaceae

Tree

 

 

237

Aegiceras corniculatum (L.) Blanco

Narikkandal

Myrsinaceae

Tree

 

 

238

Ardisia solanacea Roxb.

Kuzhimundan

Myrsinaceae

Tree

 

 

239

Syzygium caryophyllatum (L.) Alston in Trimen

Karingappazham, Kanjipazham

Myrtaceae

Tree

WGSL

 

240

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels var. cumini; Manilal & Sivar.

Kanhipazham, Njaval

Myrtaceae

Tree

 

 

241

Syzygium zeylanicum (L.) DC.

Poochapazham

Myrtaceae

Tree

 

 

242

Chionanthus mala-elengi (Dennst.) P.S. Green

Kallidala

Oleaceae

Tree

PI

 

243

Jasminum malabaricum Wight

Kadambavalli, Kathambavalli

Oleaceae

Climber

SI

 

244

Tetrapilus dioicus (Roxb.) L.A.S. Johnson

Edana

Oleaceae

Tree

IN

 

245

Ludwigia hyssopifolia (G.Don) Exell

Neergrampu

Onagraceae

Herb

 

 

246

Averrhoa bilimbi L.

Koyakkappuli

Oxalidaceae

Tree

EX

 

247

Averrhoa carambola L.

Chathurapuli

Oxalidaceae

Tree

EX

 

248

Biophytum sensitivum (L.) DC.

Mukkutti

Oxalidaceae

Herb

 

 

249

Pandanus odorifer (Forskk.) Kuntze.

Kaitha

Pandanaceae

Shrub

 

 

250

Breynia vitis-idaea (Burm.f.) C.E.C.Fisch.

Pavalappoola

Phyllanthaceae

Tree

 

 

251

Bridelia retusa (L.) A.Juss.

Mulluvenga

Phyllanthaceae

Tree

 

 

252

Bridelia stipularis (L.) Blume

Cheruka, Cherukapanachi

Phyllanthaceae

Shrub

PI

 

253

Cleistanthus collinus (Roxb.) Benth. ex Hook.f.

Odugu

Phyllanthaceae

Tree

ISL

 

254

Glochidion ellipticum Wight

Njanjetti

Phyllanthaceae

Tree

WG

 

255

Phyllanthus amarus Schum. & Thonn. in C.F. Schumacher

Keezharnelli

Phyllanthaceae

Herb

 

 

256

Phyllanthus emblica L.

Nelli

Phyllanthaceae

Tree

 

 

257

Phyllanthus reticulatus Poir. in Lam.

Neernelli

Phyllanthaceae

Shrub

 

 

258

Phyllanthus virgatus G.Forst. var. virgatus; Manilal & Sivar.

 

Phyllanthaceae

Shrub

 

 

259

Arundinella sp.

 

Poaceae

Herb

 

 

260

Axonopus compressus (Sw.) P.Beauv.

Kaalappullu

Poaceae

Herb

 

 

261

Eragrostis unioloides (Retz.) Nees ex Steud.

Avilpullu, Karayampullu

Poaceae

Herb

EX

 

262

Heteropogon contortus (L.) P. Beauv. ex Roem. & Schult.

Eeru pullu

Poaceae

Herb

 

 

263

Ischaemum ciliare Retz.

 

Poaceae

Herb

 

 

264

Oplismenus sp.

 

Poaceae

Herb

 

 

265

Polytrias indica (Houtt.) Veldkamp

Chenkodipullu

Poaceae

Herb

EX

 

266

Eichhornia crassipes Mart.

Kulavaazha

Pontederiaceae

Herb

EX

 

267

Ziziphus nummularia (Burm.f.) Wight & Arn.

 

Rhamnaceae

Climber

 

 

268

Ziziphus oenopolia (L.) Mill.

Choori pazham

Rhamnaceae

Climber

 

 

269

Bruguiera cylindrica (L.) Blume

Kandal

Rhizophoraceae

Tree

 

 

270

Carallia brachiata (Lour.) Merr.

Benkana

Rhizophoraceae

Tree

 

 

271

Kandelia candel (L.) Druce

Cherukandal

Rhizophoraceae

Tree

 

 

272

Rhizophora apiculata Blume

Kayakandal

Rhizophoraceae

Tree

 

 

273

Rhizophora mucronata Poir. in Lam.

Panachikandal

Rhizophoraceae

Tree

 

 

274

Canthium coromandelicum (Burm.f.) Alston in Trimen

Kandakara, Karamullu,

Rubiaceae

Shrub

 

 

275

Canthium rheedei DC.

Edalimullu

Rubiaceae

Shrub

PI

 

276

Catunaregam spinosa (Thunb.) Tirveng.

Kattunaragam

Rubiaceae

Tree

 

 

277

Chassalia curviflora (Wall. ex Kurz) Thwaites

Karutha amalpori

Rubiaceae

Herb

 

 

278

Exallage auricularia (L.) Bremek.

karutha tharthaval

Rubiaceae

Herb

 

 

279

Geophila repens (L.) Johnst.

Karimuthil

Rubiaceae

Herb

 

 

280

Haldina cordifolia (Roxb.) Hook.f. ex Brand.

Manjakkadambu

Rubiaceae

Tree

 

 

281

Hymenodictyon orixense (Roxb.) Mabb.

Malamkalli

Rubiaceae

Tree

 

 

282

Ixora brachiata Roxb. ex DC.

Kaatuthechi

Rubiaceae

Tree

WG

 

283

Ixora coccinea L.

Chuvanna chekki

Rubiaceae

Shrub

 

 

284

Mitracarpus hirtus (L.) DC.

Thaval

Rubiaceae

Herb

EX

 

285

Mitragyna parvifolia (Roxb.) Korth.

Neerkadambu

Rubiaceae

Tree

 

 

286

Morinda citrifolia L.

Noni

Rubiaceae

Tree

 

 

287

Morinda pubescens J.E.Smith in Rees

Manjanathi

Rubiaceae

Tree

 

 

288

Mussaenda frondosa L.

Vellila

Rubiaceae

Shrub

PI

 

289

Neolamarckia cadamba (Roxb.) Bosser

Kadamb

Rubiaceae

Tree

 

 

290

Ochreinauclea missionis (Wall. ex G.Don) Ridsd.

Aattuvanchi

Rubiaceae

Tree

WG

VU

291

Oldenlandia corymbosa L.

Parpadakappullu

Rubiaceae

Herb

 

 

292

Pavetta indica L.

Pavetta, Vellachekki

Rubiaceae

Tree

ISL

 

293

Psychotria sp.

 

Rubiaceae

Tree

 

 

294

Spermacoce latifolia Aubl.

Pachhapalla, Vellatharavu

Rubiaceae

Herb

EX

 

295

Acronychia pedunculata (L.) Miq.

Orilatheeppettimaram

Rutaceae

Tree

 

 

296

Aegle marmelos (L.) Correa

Koovalam

Rutaceae

Tree

EX

 

297

Clausena anisata (Willd.) Hook.f. ex Benth. in Hook.

Karambu

Rutaceae

Tree

 

 

298

Glycosmis pentaphylla (Retz.) DC.

Kuttippannel, Kurumpannal

Rutaceae

Shrub

 

 

299

Melicope lunu-ankenda (Gaertn.) Hartley

Kanala

Rutaceae

Tree

 

 

300

Murraya paniculata (L.) Jack.

Naaragamulla

Rutaceae

Tree

 

 

301

Naringi crenulata (Roxb.) Nicolson in Saldanha & Nicolson

Narinaragam

Rutaceae

Tree

 

 

302

Zanthoxylum asiaticum (L.) Appelhans

Karamullu

Rutaceae

Climber

 

 

303

Zanthoxylum rhetsa (Roxb.) DC.

Kuyili, Mullilam

Rutaceae

Tree

 

 

304

Salix tetrasperma Roxb.

Vanchi

Salicaceae

Tree

 

 

305

Salvinia molesta D.Mitch.

African Payal

Salviniaceae

Herb

EX

 

306

Santalum album L.

Chandanam

Santalaceae

Tree

EX

VU

307

Allophylus cobbe (L.) Raeusch.

Mookkannanpezhu

Sapindaceae

Tree

 

 

308

Otonephelium stipulaceum (Bedd.) Radlk.

Poripoovam

Sapindaceae

Tree

WG

 

309

Sapindus trifoliatus L.

Soapumkayi, Ponnikkai

Sapindaceae

Tree

 

 

310

Schleichera oleosa (Lour.) Oken

Poovam

Sapindaceae

Tree

 

 

311

Madhuca longifolia (Koenig) Macbr.

Ilippa

Sapotaceae

Tree

ISL

 

312

Madhuca neriifolia (Moon) H.J.Lam

Aattilippa

Sapotaceae

Tree

ISL

 

313

Manilkara hexandra (Roxb.) Dubard

Kirni

Sapotaceae

Tree

 

 

314

Mimusops elengi L.

Elengi

Sapotaceae

Tree

 

 

315

Limnophila aquatica (Roxb.) Alston

 

Scrophulariaceae

Herb

 

 

316

Limnophila repens (Benth.) Benth. in DC.

Manganaari

Scrophulariaceae

Herb

 

 

317

Ailanthus triphysa (Dennst.) Alston in Trimen

Matty

Simaroubaceae

Tree

 

 

318

Smilax zeylanica L.

Arikanni, Kareelanchi

Smilacaceae

Climber

 

 

319

Sonneratia alba J.E.Sm. in Rees

Nakshatrakandal

Sonneratiaceae

Tree

 

 

320

Firmiana colorata (Roxb.) R.Br. in Bennett & Brown

Malambarathi

Sterculiaceae

Tree

 

 

321

Sterculia guttata Roxb. ex DC.

Pottakkavalam

Sterculiaceae

Tree

 

 

322

Symplocos acuminata (Blume) Miq.

Paachotti

Symplocaceae

Tree

 

 

323

Grewia nervosa (Lour.) G. Panigrahi

Kottappazham, Cherikotta

Tiliaceae

Tree

 

 

324

Grewia tiliifolia Vahl

Chadachi

Tiliaceae

Tree

 

 

325

Triumfetta rotundifolia Lam.

 

Tiliaceae

Herb

 

 

326

Holoptelea integrifolia (Roxb.) Planch.

Aaval

Ulmaceae

Tree

 

 

327

Trema orientalis (L.) Blume

Aamathali

Ulmaceae

Tree

 

 

328

Callicarpa tomentosa (L.) L. in Murr.

Cheruthekk

Verbanaceae

Tree

PISL

 

329

Clerodendrum infortunatum L.

Vattapperuvalam

Verbanaceae

Tree

 

 

330

Gmelina arborea Roxb.

Kumbil

Verbanaceae

Tree

 

 

331

Premna mollissima Roth

Knappa

Verbanaceae

Tree

 

 

332

Premna serratifolia L.

Munja

Verbanaceae

Tree

 

 

333

Vitex altissima L.f.

Myla

Verbanaceae

Tree

 

 

334

Clerodendrum paniculatum L.

Hanuman Kireedam

Verbenaceae

Shrub

 

 

335

Lantana camara L.

Arippoo, Gulami, Konginipoo

Verbenaceae

Shrub

EX

 

336

Rotheca serrata (L.) Steane & Mabb.

Kurukutti

Verbenaceae

Shrub

 

 

337

Volkameria inermis L.

Puzhamulla

Verbenaceae

Shrub

ISL

 

338

Cissus repens Lam.

Chunnambu valli

Vitaceae

Climber

 

 

339

Leea indica (Burm. f.) Merr.

Njalu

Vitaceae

Shrub

EX

 

340

Zingiber zerumbet (L.) J.E.Smith

Kattinchi, Kattukolinchi

Zingiberaceae

Herb

 

 

Index to nativity: ISL — India and Sri Lanka | SI — southern India | IN — India | WG — Western Ghats | EX — Exotic | PI — Peninsular India | SISL — southern India and Sri Lanka | PISL — Peninsular India and Sri Lanka | WGSL — Western Ghats and Sri Lanka. Index to IUCN status: CR — Critically Endangered | EN — Endangered | VU — Vulnerable | NT — Near Threatened.

 

 

For figures & images - - click here for full PDF

 

 

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