eChapters

1. Botanical Name : Baccaurea ramiflora Lour.

2. Family : Phyllanthaceae

3. Common Name : Burmese Grape

4. Name in Indian languages

Sohramdieng (Khasi) and Sohmyndong (Pnar), Khatta phal (Hindi), Moktok (Manipuri), Bhubi, Iphek (Tripura)

1. Botanical name : Baccaurea courtalensis (Wt.) Muell.

2. Family : Euphorbiaceae

3. Common Name : Burmese grape, Mootapalam

4. Name in Indian languages : Mootilpazham, Mootilthoori, Mootippuli (Malayalam), Kolikuki (Kannada).

5. Description

Baccaurea courtalensis is a trees of tropical evergreen forests of the southern Western Ghats. It is an endangered tree. The tree bears tiny crimson flowers on long stalks growing on the trunk of the tree (cauliflory). These stalks are arranged in clusters on the trunk. When in bloom the whole trunk appears red and is a beautiful sight. Fruits hang in clusters from the trunk of the tree. A tall tree produces cauliflory inflorescence. The flowers are unisexual, dioecious, male inflorescence in clustered racemes on short tubercles all over the trunk, red, female inflorescence in clustered racemes, mostly confined to base of the trunk, hence its named Mootapalam.

1. Botanical Name : Balanites aegyptiaca (Linn.)

2. Family : Zygophyllaceae

3. Common Name : Desert Date, soap berry tree

4. Name in Indian languages

Hingot (Hindi), Ingala, Ingalarade, Ingalare (Kannada), Namunta, Nanchunta (Malayalam), Hingalbet, Hingam (Marathi), Tapasadruma, Angaravrksa (Sanskrit), Nanchundan, Nancuntan (Tamil), Gara, Gara-Chettu(Telugu).

1. Botanical name : Berberis aristata DC

2. Family : Berberidaceae

3. Common Name : Indian barberry

4. Name in Indian languages

Darhaldi (Bengali), Kilmora (Kumaoni), Daru-haldi (Hindi), Maradarisina, Maramanjal (Malyalam), Daruhald (Marathi), Chitra, Chutro (Nepali), Mullukala, Usikkala (Tamil), Daruharidra (Sanskrit).

1. Botanical Name : Borassus flabellifer L

2. Family : Palmae (araeceae)

3. Common Name : Mukkana, Palmyra Palm, toddy palm

4. Name in Indian languages

Taad, Tal, Trinaraaj (Hindi), Taad (Marathi), Talam (Tamil), Karimpana (Malayalam), Tatichettu (Telugu), Olegari, Taalegari, Taatinimgu (Kannada), Taala (Bengali), Sanskrit: Taalah

1. Botanical name: Buchanania lanzan spreng.

2. Family: Anacardiaceae

3. Common Name: Cuddapah almond , Chironji

4. Name in Indian languages: Chironji (Hindi), Piyal (Assami), Chironji (Bengali), Kole Maavu (Kannada), Charam (Tamil), Mungapera (Malayalam).

5. Description

It is an excellent fruit tree for agro forestry and social forestry. This species is found in dry deciduous forest throughout the country excluding eastern Himalayan forests . The flesh of ripe fruit is very palatable and is largely eaten raw or roasted and the oily kernels are the most important part and are used in preparation of puddings. Mesocarp of fruit is edible and cherished by children. Very good juice may be prepared from the pulp of chironji fruits.

1. Botanical name : Calligonum polygonoides L.

2. Family : Polygonaceae

3. Common Name : Phog

4. Name in Indian languages: Phog (Hindi), Phog(Punjabi), Balanja, Berwaja (Afghanistan).

5. Description

Phog (Calligonum polygonoides L.) is a under-utilized shrub, dominantly found in arid and semi-arid region of Thar Desert. It is a typical sand dune plant, found in whole of arid zone. It is a slow growing, branching shrub. It has a massive network of underground root which works as effective ‘sand binder’ and thus preventing erosion and stabilizing sand dunes. It grows well in absence of any type of vegetation and dominant biomass producer of the sandy areas of the desert. It is very hardy and being capable of growing under adverse conditions of soil and moisture. It is frost hardy. It is becoming increasingly rare due to the demand for its roots, overgrazing and sand mining.

1. Botanical Name : Canthium dicoccum var. umbellatum syn. Pelectronia parviflora Gaertn.) Merr

2. Family : Rubiaceae

3. Common Name : Ceylon Boxwood, Malakafe

4. Name in Indian languages

Amme pannu (Kodwa), Hanage (Kannada), Nanyul (Malayalam), Arsul, Tupa (Marathi), Nanjul, Nallamandharam (Tamil), Nalla balasu, Balasu naikinna (Telugu).

1. Botanical name : Canthium parviflora Lamk syn

2. Family : Rubiaceae

3. Common Name : Wild jessamine, Carray cheddie

4. Name in Indian languages

Kare pan (Kodwa), Karemull (Kannada), Kayil (Konkani), Madhakara, (Malayalam), Kirma (Marathi), Tutidi (Oriya), Sinnabalusu, (Telugu), Mullukaara (Tamil), Nagabala (Sanskrit).

1. Botanical Name :Capparis decidua (Forssk.) Edgew.

2. Family : Capparaceae

3. Common Name : Caper berry, Bare Caper, Kair

4. Name in Indian languages

Dela (Delhi and Punjab), Karir, Karil (Uttar Pradesh), Kair (Hindi), Nepati (Marathi), Sirakkali (Tamil), Karimullu (Malayalam), Kariramu (Telugu), Chippuri (Kannada), Khirar(Urdu), Kera (Gujarati).

1. Botanical Name : Careya arborea Roxb.

2. Family : Lecythidaceae

3. Common Name : Wild Guava, Ceylon Oak

4. Name in Indian languages

Kumbhi (Hindi), Kumbha (Marathi), Aima (Tamil), Peelam, Pela (Malayalam), Araya, Buddaburija (Telugu), Alagavvele, Daddal (Kannada), Kumbhi (Bengali), Kumbh(Oriya), Godhajam, Kumbhi (Assamese), Girikarrnika (Sanskrit).

1. Botanical name : Carissa spinarum L.

2. Family : Apocynaceae

3. Common Name : Wild Karonda

4. Name in Indian languages

Jungli Karonda, Karunda (Hindi), Karamacha (Bengali), Karmarda (Gujarati), Karmanji, Kavali (Karnataka), Karavada, Karanda, Karwant (Marathi), Vaka, Kalivi, Kavali Kalli (Telugu), Chirukila, Karvand, Kalakkay, Kalachedi (Tamilnadu), Karamdika (Oriya), Karamarda, Avighna (Sanskrit).

1. Botanical name : Choerospondias axillaris Roxb.

2. Family: Anacardiaceae

3. Common Name : Nepalese Hog plum

4. Name in Indian languages : Lupsi (Sikkim), Lapsi (Nepali)

5. Description

Nepalese Hog plum is a evergreen tree that can grow up to 10 metres tall, though is usually smaller. The bole is buttressed and about 30 - 40cm in diameter. The plant is especially valued for its edible fruit and is being increasingly cultivated for this purpose, the fruit being used locally and traded internationally. It is also used as a pioneer fruit tree in reforestation projects. Currently products of Lapsi fruit are mostly consumed locally. Lapsi fruit tree possess immense potential for income generation for hill farming communities. In Nepal, the tree is known for its delicious fruit. The Lapsi fruit tree which produces pistillate flowers are locally called as “pothi lapsi” which is a female tree and the other which produces staminate flowers is known as bhale lapsi which is a male tree. In Vietnam it is known for medicinal importance and in China for timber usage.

1. Botanical Name : Chrysophyllum roxburghii G.Don

2. Family: Sapotaceae

3. Common Name : Indian star apple

4. Name in Indian languages

Pale pan (Kodwa), Bon-pitha (Assamese), Pulichakka, Noolambazham, Athappala, Mannanchakka, Aatha, Kappalam, Athapala (Malayalam).

5. Description

Chrysophyllum roxburghii is an evergreen tree with a dense crown. It can grow 10 - 20 metres tall, occasionally reaching 30 metres. The trunk diameter may be up to 40 cm. The tree is harvested from the wild for local use as of its edible fruit, for medicinal purposes and for timber. It is occasionally cultivated for its fruit and the wood is sometimes traded.

1. Botanical Name : Cordia myxa Roxb.

2. Family : Boranginaceae

3. Common Name : Indian cherry, Lasoda , Goonda

4. Name in Indian languages

Lasoda (Hindi ), Chalhanu (Kannada), Bahubara, Bohari(Bengali), Gundomoto (Gujrati ), Aruvili (Tamil), Cheruviri (Malyalam), Bhokar (Marathi), Bahuvaraka (Sanskrit), Gondi (odiya), Chinnabotuku(Telugu).

5. Description

Cordia myxa is a medium size tree with a dense crown, that can grow up to 12 metres. The stem is stout. It is a multi-purpose tree and use as a food, medicine and source of wood, fibre etc. It is originated in Indian subcontinent but cultivated in western African countries for it’s edible and medicinal fruits.

1. Botanical name : Corylus jacquemontii Decne

2. Family : Betulaceae

3. Common Name : Indian Hazelnut

4. Name in Indian languages

Bhotiya badam, Kabasi (Hindi), Thangi, Thankoli, Shalodi, Urmuni, Sharoli and Sharod (Himachali).

5. Description

Indian Hazelnut is a wild plant of the mid and high hills of the Himalayas. The tree is small or medium-sized and deciduous. Leaves are ovate or obovate, irregularly lobed or toothed, silky pubescent on nerves beneath. Flowers emerge before the leaves. Male flowers are arranged in drooping spikes while female flowers are cone-like, small, ovoid produced in pairs.

1. Botanical name : Crataegus oxyacantha L.

2. Family : Rosaceae

3. Common Name : English Hawthorn

4. Name in Indian languages

Bansangli (Hindi), Ghingharoo (Kumaoni).

5. Description

Hawthorn is a thorny shrub commonly found in abundance in forests and open places in Himalayan regions at an altitude of 1500- 2500 m above msl. It is an aggressive settler and difficult to remove. The stem is grayish to purple brown in colour and hard. Hawthorn has been used in folk medicine for the treatment of diarrhea, gall bladder disease, insomnia, and as an antispasmodic agent in the treatment of asthma.

1. Botanical Name : Debregeasia velutina Gaud

2. Family : Urticaceae

3. Common Name : Wild Rhea

4. Name in Indian languages

Syaru (Kumoani), Poonoolmaram, Neeranji, Narambili, (Malayalam), Kaattu, Nochchi, Katunochchi, (Tamil), Sansaru (Hindi), Garuga (Kannada), Tussare (Nepali), Khargul(Marathi), Syaru (Garhwali).

1. Botanical name : Dillenia indica L.

2. Family : Dilleniaceae

3. Common Name : Elephant Apple, Indian catmon

4. Name in Indian languages

Chalta, Karambel (Hindi), Paanca phal, Panca kule, Ram phal, Thulo tatri (Nepali), Avartaki (Sanskrit).

1. Botanical Name: Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb.

2. Family: Ebenaceae

3. Common Name: East Indian ebony, Tendu

4. Name in Indian languages

Tendu, Timburni (Hindi), Kend, Kendu (Bengali), Abanasi, Balai (Kannada), Kari (Malayalam), Tendu, Temru, Timburni (Marathi), Dirghapatraka (Sanskrit), Karai, Karundumbi, Tumbi (Tamil), Tuniki, Beedi, Aaku (Telugu).

1. Botanical name : Diploknema butyracea H J Larn

2. Family : Sapotaceae

3. Common Name : Indian Butter Tree

4. Name in Indian languages : Chiura, Phuwara, Chura (Hindi, Kumaoni), Chyuri (Nepali).

1. Botanical Name : Docynia indica Syn. Docynia hookeriana, Syn. Docynia rufifolia, Syn. Malus docynioides, Syn. Pyrus indica, Syn. Pyrus rufifolia

2. Family : Rosaceae (Pomeae)

3. Common Name : Mehal

4. Name in Indian languages

Sohphoh (Khasi), Mel, Mehal (Nepali), Tong, Thung kakpa (Bhutan).

5. Description

Docynia indica is deciduous tree found in India and South East Asia. The trees are medium to tall in height. It requires a well-drained soil in a sunny position. This species can tolerate temperatures down to about -5 to -10°C. Fruits are acidic and greenish with red tinged. Fruits are eaten as fresh or pickles as well used in jelly preparation. It is also used as rootstock for imparting semi-dwarf in apple.

1. Botanical Name: Elaegnus parviflora Wall. Ex. Royle

2. Family: Elaeagnaceae

3. Common Name: Autumn Olive

4. Name in Indian languages

Giwain, Kankal (Hindi, Kumoani), Heiyai (Manipuri), Guenlee (Nepali).

5. Description

Autumn olive is a small tree or shrub, often spiny. The small white (fading to yellow) flowers have a sickly-sweet aroma.

6. Origin and distribution

Autumn olive is found in the Himalayas, from Kashmir to Bhutan, Assam and western China, at altitudes of 1300-3000 m.

1. Botanical Name : Elaeocarpus munronii (Wt.) mast)

2. Family : Elaeocarpaceae

3. Common Name : Kalarudraksha

4. Name in Indian languages

Idanji pan (Koodwa), Nari Bikki, Kal Bikki (Kannada), Rudraksham (Tamil), Kalarudraksham, Shirukodala (Malayalam).

5. Description

Elaeocarpus munronii is plant in the Elaeocarpaceae family. It is found only in India. It is threatened by habitat loss. Trees grows up to 15 m tall.Trunk is greyish, smooth and blaze cream. Leaves are simple, alternate, 4-9 cm long , ovate Flowers axillary in racemes, white. Fruit is Drupe, elliptic and 2 cm long, smooth with single seed

1. Botanical name : Elaeocarpus serratus

2. Family : Elaeocarpaceae

3. Common Name : Ceylon olive and Wild olive

4. Name in Indian languages: Veralu (Sinhala) and Karai or Ulankarai (Tamil).

5. Description

Elaeocarpus serratus, also called, Ceylon olive is a tropical fruit . The tree is a medium size tree with leaves similar to avocado. The tree usually measures from 8 to 15 metres in height. The fruits are almost similar to the large green olives. This is a sun loving tree grows on Loam soil and requires low maintenance. The delicate, lacy, white flowers usually attract a myriad of insect pollinators, notably flies, wasps and flower beetles.

1. Botanical Name : Elaeocarpus tuberculatus Roxb.

2. Family : Elaeocarpaceae

3. Common Name : Warty Marble Tree

4. Name in Indian languages

Kooge pan (Kodwa), Dandale Mara, Kadambola, Kunge Mara (Kannada), Badraksham, Rudraksham, Pahumban, Kara, Ammakorum, Adraksham, Mukkanni, Vellathaanni, Thodayam (Malayalam), Malampinnai, Pathrachi, Ruthraksham (Tamil).

1. Botanical Name : Feronia elephantum Correa syn. Limonia acidissima

2. Family : Rutaceae

3. Common Name : Elephant apple, Wood apple, monkey fruit, curd fruit

4. Name in Indian languages

Kathabel, Kainth (Hindi), Kapittha (Bengali), Kotha (Gujarati), Kavat (Marathi), Belda hanuu (Kannada), Velam, Velan, Vila, Vilanga (Tamil), Vilarmaram (Malayalam), Velaga (Telugu).

1. Botanical Name: Ficus auriculata Lour.

2. Family : Moraceae

3. Common Name : Elephant Ear Fig, Roxburgh fig

4. Name in Indian languages

Fagoora, Phagoora, (Hindi), Timla, Tirmal (Kumaoni), Heiba (Manipuri), Theibal (Mizo), Chanadumari (Nepali).

1. Botanical Name : Ficus palmata Forsk.

2. Family: Moraceae

3. Common Name: Wild Himalayan fig

4. Name in Indian languages

Anjiri, Bedu, Khemri, Jangli-Anjir (Hindi), Pheru (Gardwali), Bedu (Kumauni), Phegra, Fagura, Khasra, Daghla, Anjir (Himachali), Phegwara, Phagoru, Fagu, Anjir (Punjabi), Heibam (Manipuri), Manjimedi (Telugu), Pepri (Gujarati).

1. Botanical Name : Flacourtia indica

2. Family : Flacourtiaceae

3. Common Name : Governor’s plum

4. Name in Indian languages: Bilangra (Hindi), Benchi (Bengali), Mulanninchil (Tamil), Athruna (Marathi), Karimulli (Malyalam), shruvavrikksha (Sanskrit), Nakka-neredu (Telugu).

5. Description

This is a bushy shrub or tree with a spiny trunk and branches. It may grow upto 10 metero. The drooping branches bear oval leaves. Governor’s plum is a common in tropical dry deciduous and thorn forests, though more abundant in the former. It also occurs in seasonally dry forest, woodland, bushland, thickets, wooded grassland, and often in riparian vegetation. The species is drought resistant though somewhat frost tender.

1. Botanical Name : Flacourtia montana J. Graham

2. Family : Flacourtiaceae

3. Common Name : Mountain Sweet Thorn

4. Name in Indian languages

Raan-tambut (Marathi), Caralvvazham (Malayalam), Attak, Hennu Sampige (Kannada), Atak, Chamfar(Konkani), Attak (Gujarati), Male Kakkade (Kodwa).

1. Botanical name : Fragaria indica Andr.

2. Family : Rosaceae

3. Common Name : Wild strawberry, Indian Strawberry, Mock strawberry

4. Name in Indian languages

Kiphaliya (Hindi), Kaphai (Kumaoni), Kakyen, Khujin, Laba, Linmahu (Manipuri), Sarpe Phool, Bhuin aiselu (Nepali), Bhuinaakhe, Kophal (Himachali).

5. Description

It is small perennial herb. It is found in cool and shady locations in wastelands as well as in the cultivated fields. The fruits are bright-red color, The plant resembles the strawberry to a great extent.

1. Botanical name: Garcinia gummigutta L (Roxb).

2. Family: Clusiaceae

3. Common Name : Cambodge Tree, Malabar-tamarind

4. Name in Indian languages

Panapuli (Kodwa), Manda huli, Mantulli, Punara huli, Seeme hunnise, Upagi mara (Kannada), Gorakkapuli, Pinar, Kodampuli, Kudapuli, Marapuli, Meenpuli, Perumpuli, Pinampuli (Malayalam), Gorakkapuli, Heela, Kottukkappuli, Panampuli (Tamil).

1. Botanical name : Garcinia indica Chiocey

2. Family : Clusiaceae

3. Common Name : Kokum, Indian butter tree

4. Name in Indian languages

Kokum (Hindi), Bheranda, Bhiranda, Kokamba, Kokambi, Ratamba, Ratambi, Tambada Amba (Marathi), murgal, Murgal-mara(Tamil), Kaattampi, Kokkam(Malayalam), Murgina, Punarpuli, Devana huli (Kannada), Tintali (Oriya), Kokam(Gujarati), Bhirind, Kokam (Konkani), Vrikshamla, (Sanskrit).

1. Botanical Name : Garcinia xanthochymus Hook

2. Family : Clusiaceae

3. Common Name : Mysore Gamboge, Sour mangosteen, Yellow Mangosteen

4. Name in Indian languages

Jharambi, Tamal, Tumul (Hindi), Dampel, Tamal hindi tepor, Tepor tenga (Assamese), Chalata Bengali), Devajarige, Devagarike, Devangi, Gansargi, Hirekanigu (Kannada), Anavaya, Pinar, Samudrapacca (Malayalam), Tapinchha(Oriya), Bhavishya, Kalakhanda, Kusumodar (Sanskrit), Paccilai, Pachilai, Pacchilai (Tamil), Cikatimranu, Ivarumamidi, Memaditamalamu, Sikatimramu (Telugu), Beenakepuli (Kodwa).

1. Botanical Name : Garuga pinnata Roxb.

2. Family : Burseraceae

3. Common Name : Garuga, grey downy balsam

4. Name in Indian languages

Kharpat (Hindi), Kakad (Marathi), Arunelli (Tamil), Annakaara (Malayalam), Garuga (Telugu), Konda vepa (Kannada), Kapila (Bengali), Khusimb (Gujarati), Karnikar (Sanskrit), Pama (Assami).

1. Botanical Name : Glycosmis arborea Roxb.

2. Family : Rutaceae

3. Common Name : Orange berry

4. Name in Indian languages

Ban Nimbu (Hindi), Ban jamir (Bangali), Guruvade (Kannada), Menki (Konkani), Kuttippanal (Malayalam), Kirmira (Marathi), Chauladhua (Oriya), Vananimbuka (Sanskrit), Pumippalam(Tamil), Konda golugu (Telugu).

1. Botanical Name : Grewia tiliifolia Vahl

2. Family : Tiliaceae

3. Common Name : Dhamani, Dhaman

4. Name in Indian languages

Dhamani, Dhaman (Hindi), Unu (Tamil), Unnam (Malayalam), Cahrachi (Telugu), Todsal (Kannada), Dhamin (Bengali), Dhanu vriksha (Sanskrit), Thadachi pan (Kodwa).

5. Description

Dhaman is a moderate-sized to large tree of family Tiliaceae. It is a very close relative of Phalsa. The yellow flower resembles the true Phalsa flower very much. The main difference is in the leaves. The main trunk can be 60cm or more in diameter. The leaves of Dhaman are oblique heart-shaped. Tree trunk is grey or dark brown. It flowers in April- May. The flowers are small, borne on thick axillary peduncles. Whole fruit expect seed are consumed at ripe stage. The tree is harvested from the wild for local use of its fibre, wood and edible fruit. 7. Morphology

Large trees, bark dark brown or greyish-brown, rough, vertically striated; blaze brownish-red, fibrous, streaked; branchlets stellate-tomentose. Leaves simple, alternate; stipules 7-10 mm, lateral, auricled; petiole 8-35 mm, stout, swollen tipped, pubescent; lamina 6-36 x 3-24 cm, broadly ovate or obliquely ovate to round, base obliquely cordate or subcordate, apex acute, margin double serrate or crenate-serrate, glabrescent above and hoary pubescent beneath, coriaceous, 5-7-ribbed from base, prominent, lateral nerves 3-6 pairs, pinnate, prominent, intercostae scalariform, prominent. Flowers bisexual, yellow, in axillary umbels; peduncle 1.5-2 cm long; sepals 5, pubescent; petals 5, yellow, half the length of sepals, entire or notched, densely tomentose outside; stamens many, free, inserted on a glandular torus; gland densely villous on the margin; ovary superior, globose, hirsute, 2-4-celled, ovules 2-many; style subulate; stigma obscurely lobed, recurved. Fruit a drupe, globose to subglobose, reddish-purple, 2-lobed, sparsely hairy.

1.Botanical name : Haematocarpus validus (Miers) Bakh. f. ex Forman

2.Family : Menispermaceae

3.Common Name : Khoon Phal, Blood Fruit

4. Name in Indian languages

Khoon phal (Hindi), Roktogula/Lalgula (Bengali), Rosco (Chakma), Thoyphal (Tripura), Te.pattang (Garo), Theichhung-sen (Mizo), Ranguichi (Marma), Raktaphal (Tamil/Telugu/Malayalam), Sohsnam (Khasi & Pnar).

5. Description

Khoon Phal is a dicotyledonous plant species. It is an evergreen perennial creeping woody climber capable of growing under extreme conditions, from very dry environments to highly acidic soils. It grows up to 1000 m and more in height with dark green glabrous profusely branched stems. It creeps and grows on other big trees for support.

1. Botanical Name : Hippophae rhamnoides ssp. Turkestanica L. (Fam.)

2. Family : Elaeagnaceae

3. Common Name : Sea buckthorn,Leh berry

4. Name in Indian languages

Amesh, Khatai (Garhwali), Tarbu (Lahaul), Dhurchuk (Hindi), Chook/ Dhurchuk (Kumoani), Tseta lulu (Ladakh), Chharma, Tir guk (Spiti).

5. Description

Sea-buckthorn is a dioecious, usually spinescent deciduous shrub or a small tree of Elaeagnacae family. It grows up to a height of 10 m and found growing in the river beds of the drier ranges of the state at an altitude of 1600-3300 m in Himalayan ranges from Ladakh to Uttarakhand. Leaves are small and linear-lanceolate. Flowers are very small, greenish or yellowish. The fruit is acidic and is made into a jelly with sugar. A syrup is also prepared from it which is used in respiratory complaints. A decoction is used for cutaneous eruptions. The fruit is a rich source of vitamin C, carotene and also contains vitamin B. The leaves and flowers are used for treating arthritis, gastrointestinal ulcers, gout, skin rashes and lowering blood pressure.

1. Botanical Name : Leptadenia pyrotechnica Forssk. Decne

2. Family : Apocynaceae

3. Common Name : Kheep, Broom bush

4. Name in Indian languages

Kheep (Hindi), Khip(Punjabi), Jivanti (Sanskrit).

5. Description

It is a much branched often leafless erect shrub. The edible part is tender fruit. It can grow up to 3 metres height. A desert plant, it is often utilized by local people within its native range, particularly as a fibre plant and for fuel. It is also planted in soil stabilization in arid areas.

6. Origin and distribution

It is originated from North Africa to desert areas to Western India. It is distributed throughout the arid zone of Rajasthan particularly in Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaiselmer districts of Rajasthan. Kheep is also found gorwing in Pakistan, Iran, Arabia, Egypt, Sudan, Somalia, Chad, Libya and Algeria.

1. Botanical name :Machilus edulis King ex Hook.

2. Family : Lauraceae

3. Common Name: Pumsi, wild avocado

4. Name in Indian languages : Pumsi, Phumkung (Lepcha), Lachyphal, Kawala (Nepali).

5. Description

Pumsi is an evergreen species grow up to a height of about 15-20 m, with spreading branches. It grows from Nepal to Sikkim, Bhutan, Arunachal Pradesh and the whole north-eastern region. Pumsi is considered as one of the forms of Avocado (Percea americana) in its native region.

6. Origin and distribution

It is native of India,Nepal, Bhutan, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and the whole north-eastern region. The plants growwell incool humid regions in hills.The species is found in low density in forests at 1200 - 2400 metres height.The species is hermaphrodite, suitable for light sandy to loamy and clay soils. It can grow in semi-shade. It prefers moist soil.

1. Botanical Name : Madhuca longifolia var. latifolia (Rox.) A. Chev.

2. Family : Sapotaceae

3. Common Name : Indian Butter Tree

4. Name in Indian languages

Mahua, Mohwa (Hindi), Maul (Bengali), Kat-Illipi (Marathi), Illupa Malayalam), Ippa (Telugu), Mahudo (Gujarati), Hippe Mara (Kannada).

5. Description

Indian Butter tree (mahua) is one of the most important trees of Indian forest. It produces delicious and nutritive flowers, fruits, seeds and valuable timber. It is a deciduous tree with a large, spreading, rounded crown that can grow 16 metres or more tall. The short main trunk can be up to 80 cm in diameter. Mahua is an indigenous tree of high economic value. A characteristic tree of the dry region, it is found in north and central India. The tree is very well known to rural folk since ages in India. Its flowers, fruits, and oil obtained from seeds are eaten in various ways. Mahua flowers are a rich source of sugar containing appreciable amount of vitamins and minerals. Fruit is eaten as raw or cooked. Pulp is a good source of sugar, whereas dry husk makes a good source of absolute alcohol. Seed is a good source of oil.

1. Botanical Name : Meyna laxiflora Robyns

2. Family : Rubiaceae

3. Common Name : Moina, Aliv

4. Name in Indian languages

Kutkura, Moin (Assamese), Mainphal, Muduna, Muyna, Muyuna (Bengal), Alu, Atu (Gujrati), Moina, Muduna, Muyuna (Hindi), Mullakare, Gundkare, gobergally (Kannada), Alu, Huloo, Halawni (Marathi), Pindi, Pinditaka, Pindituka, Pindu (Sanskirit), Manakkarai (Tamil), Segagadda, Veliki, Visikilamu (Telgu), Monono, Montaphoo (Odiya).

5. Description

It is a large common shrub or a small tree and commonly found in evergreen forests. Meyna is a genus of shrub and small trees distributed in tropical and subtropical region. The fruits are used for preparation of pickle.

1. Botanical Name : Mimosops elengi L.

2. Family : Sapotaceae

3. Common Name : Spanish cherry, Molshri, Bullet wood tree

4. Name in Indian languages

Maulsri (Hindi), Magizhamboo (Tamil), Ilanni (Malayalam), Bakul (Bengali), Bakuli (Marathi), Ranjal (Kannada), Barsoli (Gujarati), Maulsari (Nepali).

5. Description

Maulshri is a evergreen small tree of the Indian subcontinent. It provides a dense shade. The main stem is often short and divided into several large main branches. The tree provides food, medicine and a range of commodities for the local people. It is often cultivated in the tropics and subtropics, as an ornamental avenue tree and in gardens.

1. Botanical Name : Morinda pubescens

2. Family : Rubiaceae

3. Common Name : Indian Mulberry, Morinda tree

4. Name in Indian languages

Aal (Hindi), Dhaula, Aseti (Marathi), Mannanunai, Mannanatti, Nonu, Nuna (Tamil), Mannappavitta (Malayalam), Maddi (Telugu), Haladipavette, Maddi (Kannada), Achu, Pindra (Oriya) , Paphanah (Sanskrit).

5. Description

Aall or Indian mulberry (Morinda pubescens) is a species of flowering plant in the family Rubiaceae, It is an evergreen shrub or small tree growing . The fruits are small and edible. A scarlet colouring matter is procured from the roots and bark, and used for dying hand kerchiefs, turbans, etc. It is also used to assist more expensive dyes in giving a red colour to yarnand cloth. The red threrads used in carpet-making used entirely to be dyed with it. The tree formerly used to be much more commonly cultivated than it is now. Since the introduction of the cheap aniline dyes’s its cultivation decreased.

1. Botanical Name : Myrica esculenta Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don

2. Family : Myricaceae

3. Common Name : Box myrtle

4. Name in Indian languages: Kainaryamy (Telugu), Nagatenga (Assami), Satsarila (Bengali), Kariphal (Gujarati), Kaiphal (Hindi), Kirishivani (Kannada), Maruta (Malayalam), Soh-phi (Khasi), Kaphal (Kumaoni), Kayaphala (Marathi), Krishnagarbha (Sanskrit), Masudam (Tamil).

5. Description

Myrica esculenta is grow extensively in hilly regions of Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh , Nepal and Bhutan at elevations of 1000-2300 m. It is small to medium size evergreen tree. The stem bark is grayish dark in colour and rough. The fruits of this species are edible and used by the local population. The stem bark and wood is very good for fuel wood purpose.

1. Botanical Name : Phoenix sylvestris Roxb.

2. Family : Palmae

3. Common Name : Wild Date Palm, Indian wild date, Sugar date palm

4. Name in Indian languages

Khajur (Hindi), Thangtup (Manipuri), Kharik, Kharjuri (Marathi), Inthupaanai (Tamil),: Niilanthent (Malayalam), Ita (Telugu), Ichalu, Kharjura (Kannada), Khejura (Bengali), Khorjurri (Oriya), Khaajuri (Assamese), Khajuri (Gujarati), Kharjuri (Sanskrit), Kandela, Taadii (Nepali).

5. Description

Wild date palm is native to India and southern portions of Pakistan. It is closely related Phoenix dactylifera (Date palm). It grows naturally and is cultivated around homesteads, farmland periphery and in marginal lands along the roadside and canals, even on fallow land. It can survive in disturbed areas, such as wastelands or seasonally inundated areas. It is a medium height tree of 9–10 m. The single-seeded fruit ripens to a purple-red colour, and is eaten fresh or processed. The leaf sap also used in various preparations. Fruits are rich source of carbohydrate, phenols, amino acids, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, terpenoids, dietary fibers, vitamins and minerals. Different parts of the plant have diverse medicinal properties such as antipyretic, cardiotonic, laxative, diuretic and antioxidant.

1. Botanical Name : Phyllanthus acidus (L) skeels.

2. Family : Phyllanthaceae

3. Common Name : Star Gooseberry

4. Name in Indian languages : Jangli Aonla (Hindi), Aria Nellikai (Tamil), Narakli (Oriya), Nora (Bengali), Kiru nelli(Kannada).

5. Description

Star gooseberry is a small tree of 4 to 8m height. The tree’s dense and bushy crown is composed of thickish, tough main branches. It tree grows well in the tropics up to an altitude of 1500 - 1800 metres. It prefers hot, humid tropical conditions with a short dry season. The fruits are yellow and used as fresh or processed. The plants grow well in dry areas but require moist site for initial establishment otherwise, plants are drought tolerant.

1. Botanical Name : Physalis minima Linn.

2. Family : Solanaceae

3. Common Name : Ground Cherry, Sun berry

4. Name in Indian languages

Rasbhari, Chirpati (Hindi), Chirboti, Ran-popti (Marathi), Kupanti (Tamil), Notinotta (Malayalam), Kupanti (Telugu), Gadde hannu (Kannada), Bantepariya (Bengali), Popti (Gujarati).

5. Description

Sunberry is an erect, much-branched, annual plant growing around 50cm tall. The edible fruit is sometimes gathered from the wild and used locally. This is a popular wild fruit to pick and eat. The taste of the ripe berry is sweet and distinctive. The berries are ripe when the husk turns brown and the berry inside takes on a yellowish cast. The plant also has a range of medicinal uses. Physalis minima is commonly found on the bunds of the fields, wastelands, around the houses, on roadsides, etc. where the soil is porous and rich in organic matter. It is an annual herbaceous plant having a very delicate stem and leaves.