New Garcinia species found in Assam, named after botanist's mother
Assam has yielded a new-to-science tree species belonging to the genus Garcinia, commonly referred to as thoikora in Assamese. The newly described Garciniakusumae has been named in honour of Kusum Devi, the late mother of Jatindra Sarma, one of the authors of the study and the Chairman of Assam's State Expert Appraisal Committee appointed by the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
The study, co-authored by Hussain A. Barbhuiya of Mumbai's Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, appears in the latest issue of Feddes Repertorium, a peer-reviewed journal focusing on botanical taxonomy and geobotany.
Garcinia kusumae marks the fourth instance of Mr. Sarma naming a botanical discovery after a family member. Previous names include Amomum pratisthana (after his daughter), Syzygium nivae (wife), and Garcinia sibeswarii (father). This is the first time an Indian botanist-researcher has had four plant species named after immediate family members. 'The epithet kusumae… is in recognition of her enduring support and sacrifices for his [Mr. Sarma's] education,' the study noted.
Garcinia, the largest genus in the family Clusiaceae, comprises 414 species of shrubs and trees. Pan-tropically distributed, its centres of diversity are found in Africa, Australasia, and Southeast Asia. The genus is known for its floral diversity, frequent presence in lowland tropical rainforests, and considerable pharmacological potential.
In India, 33 species and seven varieties of Garcinia have been documented, with Assam accounting for 12 species and three varieties.
Mr. Sarma found the thoikora specimen in Bamunbari, located in Baksa district, in April, during a survey of Garcinia species. The tree's distinct morphological features prompted further investigation. Specimens were collected following standard herbarium protocols, including pressing, drying, and preservation.
A dioecious evergreen tree that can grow up to 18 metres tall, Garcinia kusumae was observed to flower from February to April, with fruit maturing between May and June.
While the thoikora shares superficial similarities with Garcinia assamica, Garcinia cowa, and Garcinia succifolia, morphological analysis revealed distinguishing characteristics, including up to 15 staminate flowers per fascicle, fewer stamens per flower (except in Garcinia assamica), and berries with blackish resinous exudations.
The fruit holds local cultural and medicinal value. According to the study, the sun-dried pulp is used to prepare a sherbet (soft drink) with salt and sugar, consumed during hot days to prevent heat stroke and alleviate thirst. It is also used in curries with fish and employed as a traditional remedy for diabetes and dysentery. The seed aril, slightly sour and sweet, is eaten raw, often with salt, chillies, and a dash of mustard oil.
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