Report by Swasti Sharma
A rare orchid (flowering plants belonging to Orchidaceae family) species named Cymbidium lancifolium was found in the Chopta valley of Chamoli district present in Uttrakhand (A state of India).
Usually, this species is only found in Bhutan and upper reaches. This is its first sighting in Chopta.
The sighting was made by Uttarakhand Forest Research Institute.
This is a terrestrial species of orchid (an orchid that grows in the ground). The research staff of Forest Department Uttarakhand was conducting a ‘Plant Exploration Survey’ in and around the Chopta Valley (at 1761 metres) when they found this rare species.
About Cymbidium lancifolium
This is one of the species of Cymbidium. It is also known as Lance leafed Cymbidium. This species has its natural habitat in hilly regions of India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, Taiwan, Japan and many of the Southeast Asian countries. They grow at altitudes of 300 to 2300 meters. The plant is generally grown in cool to intermediate temperature conditions but with bright light.
They are sold as cut flowers (flowers and flower buds that have been cut from the plant bearing it. These flowers are used in bouquets) and potted plants on a commercial scale due to their long-lasting property, wide range of colours and elegant appearance. This makes them fit for both indoor and outdoor decoration.