Travancore torenia

Description

Torenia travancorica is a rare species of flowering plant that belongs to the genus Torenia and family Linderniaceae. It is native to the Western Ghats of India and is found in the state of Kerala. This plant is highly prized for its beautiful flowers and is popularly known as "Travancore torenia." In this article, we will explore the various aspects of Torenia travancorica, including its botanical description, habitat, distribution, cultivation, and uses. Botanical Description: Torenia travancorica is a small, perennial herb that grows up to 30 cm in height. It has a branched stem that is covered with short hairs. The leaves are opposite, ovate to lanceolate, and are around 1-3 cm long. The flowers of Torenia travancorica are solitary and borne on axillary peduncles. They are funnel-shaped, about 2 cm long, and come in shades of purple or lavender. The corolla is bilabiate with two upper lobes and three lower lobes. The upper lobes are rounded, and the lower lobes are narrow and pointed. The stamens are four, and the anthers are fused to form a tube around the style. The fruit is a capsule, and the seeds are small, brown, and numerous. Habitat and Distribution: Torenia travancorica is endemic to the Western Ghats, a mountain range in southwestern India. It is found in the evergreen forests of the Kerala region, growing at an elevation of 600-900 meters above sea level. The plant prefers moist, shaded areas and is often found growing along stream banks, rocky slopes, and forest clearings. Cultivation: Torenia travancorica is a rare and endangered species, and its cultivation is not widespread. However, it can be grown in a greenhouse or in a shaded area with moist, well-drained soil. It prefers a temperature range of 18-25°C and high humidity. The plant can be propagated through seeds or cuttings. The seeds should be sown in a moist, sterile potting mix, and the seedlings should be transplanted to individual pots when they have 2-3 true leaves. The cuttings should be taken from the stem tip and should be dipped in rooting hormone before being planted in a moist potting mix. The plant should be watered regularly and fertilized with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Uses: Torenia travancorica is primarily grown for its ornamental value. The plant's beautiful flowers make it a popular choice for use in gardens, parks, and floral arrangements. The flowers are also used in traditional medicine for their antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties. The plant is believed to have a cooling effect on the body and is used to treat fever, cough, and other respiratory ailments. Conservation: Torenia travancorica is listed as endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. The plant is threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation and agricultural activities. Its limited distribution also makes it vulnerable to extinction. Efforts are being made to conserve this rare species through the establishment of protected areas and the implementation of sustainable land use practices. Conclusion: Torenia travancorica is a rare and beautiful plant that is endemic to the Western Ghats of India. Its ornamental value and medicinal properties make it a highly prized species. However, its limited distribution and habitat loss make it a threatened species. Conservation efforts are necessary to ensure the survival of this unique and valuable plant.