Garcinia kusumae

The discovery of Garcinia kusumae adds another exciting chapter to the rich botanical diversity of Assam. This species, named after Jatindra Sarma’s late mother, Kusum Devi, is an excellent example of how scientific research and personal stories can intertwine in meaningful ways.

Key Features:

• Dioecious Evergreen Tree: The species is dioecious, meaning it has distinct male and female plants, which is an interesting reproductive feature. It can grow up to 18 meters tall, making it a significant addition to the landscape.

  Flowering & Fruit Maturation: It flowers between February and April, with the fruit maturing from May to June. This seasonal pattern offers clues to the tree's environmental adaptations.

  Morphological Distinctions: While sharing some similarities with other Garcinia species in Assam, it has distinctive features, including up to 15 staminate (male) flowers per fascicle and fewer stamens per flower. The berries also have blackish resinous exudations, making them unique.

Local Cultural and Medicinal Importance:

• Medicinal Uses: The fruit's pulp is dried and used to make a refreshing sherbet, especially in hot climates to prevent heatstroke and quench thirst. It also has traditional medicinal uses for treating diabetes and dysentery.

  Culinary Uses: The fruit is commonly added to fish curries, enhancing the flavor with its unique taste. The seed aril is eaten raw, often with a mix of salt, chilies, and mustard oil — a true example of how plants are used both for nutrition and healing in local cuisines.

Important facts :

• Garcinia Genus: This genus, with 414 species, is found primarily in tropical regions, such as Africa, Southeast Asia, and Australasia. It is renowned not only for its diverse flowers but also its pharmacological potential, which means it may hold the key to many more medicinal discoveries.

  Indian Diversity: Assam is a hotspot for the genus, with 12 species and three varieties of Garcinia. It seems to be a prime location for researchers due to its dense tropical rainforests and diverse ecosystems.