Hidden Himalayan Treasure: Documentation of Rare Medicinal Orchid Calanthe puberulaLindl., from Yakten Valley

SIDDHANT CHETIA, Dr. KALAIVANAN, N. S, Dr. NIKHILA, V. A, Dr. CHANDAN GOWDA, Mr. AJAY BHUSAL, SURAKS

Encountering an orchid in the wildis something truly magical and mesmerizing. Unlike the carefully nurtured orchids that adorn gardens and homes, wild orchids emerge naturally from ancient forests, clinging to moss-covered tree trunks, rocky outcrops or the leaf-littered forest floor. Every bloom witnessed would be a testament to nature's artistry, shaped by thousands of years of evolution and perfectly adapted to its surroundings. After hiking throughout deep woods, the excitement of seeing a flowering orchid is unparalleled, turning a botanical expedition into an amazing journey.During recent botanical exploration in the forests of Yakten Valley of Pakyong District, Sikkim, scientific team from the ICAR–NRC for Orchids, Pakyong, spotted and documented the medicinal terrestrial orchid Calanthe puberulaLindl., in its natural habitat.

Calanthe puberulaLindl., is an elegant terrestrial orchid that thrives in cool, moist, shaded forests with humusrich soils. The species is characterized by its short underground pseudobulbs, broad plicate green leaves and erect flowering spikes that bear numerous delicate flowers. The flowers are typically white to pale pink or lilac, with a threelobed lip that may bear delicate purple markings.The plant generally flowers from spring to early summer depending on altitude and local climatic conditionswhile its seedslike those of most orchids require association with mycorrhizal fungi for successful germination and establishment in nature. This specialized ecological requirement makes the species highly sensitive to habitat disturbance and environmental changes.Besides its aesthetic appeal, Calanthe puberula possesses considerable ethnomedicinal importance. In traditional Himalayan medicine, the plant is valued for its cooling properties and is consumed as a general health tonic to promote vitality and overallwellbeing.

The documentation of Calanthe puberulaLindl. in the Yakten Valley highlights the ecological and medicinal significance of native orchids and reinforces the importance of continued field exploration, habitat conservation, and scientific documentation. The presence of naturally pollinated flowers in the capsule maturation stage is particularly noteworthy, as it indicates the successful activity of native pollinators within the ecosystem. Orchids are renowned for their highly specialized pollination mechanisms, often relying on a narrow range of insect pollinators, making successful capsule set a valuable indicator of a healthy and well-functioning habitat. The pristine subtropical to warm temperate forests of Yakten Valley provide the unique environmental conditions required for sustaining these intricate plant–pollinator interactions. Conserving these undisturbed habitats is therefore essential not only for the long-term survival of orchid populations but also for preserving the ecological processes that support forest biodiversity. Such documentation underscores the need for sustained conservation efforts and scientific monitoring while inspiring local communities to recognize, value and safeguard their rich natural heritage for future generations.