BOTANICAL DIVERSITY AROUND SSCBS

PRESENTATION BY : Shubh Jaiswal

BMS 1A
24224
 Broadleaf Lady Palm
Botanical Name : Rhapis excelsa
Rhapis excelsa, also known as the broadleaf lady palm or bamboo palm, is a type of fan palm
that is native to the southern regions of China and the northern parts of Vietnam. This plant is
evergreen and usually forms large groups of stems, growing to heights of 3 to 4 meters
(approximately 10 to 13 feet) and has leaves that are glossy and divided into multiple leaflets,
with some plants having up to twelve leaflets as they grow. It prefers to grow in areas with
little to no sunlight, which is why it's a favorite among houseplants, and is praised for its ability
to clean the air by removing harmful substances like ammonia and formaldehyde. Rhapis
excelsa is a male-female plant, meaning it produces small, inconspicuous yellow flowers that
are not very noticeable and are often missed. Its growth rate is slow, with an average of less
than a foot per year, and it has a unique appearance that resembles bamboo, as the lower
leaves fall off, leaving marks on the stems. This plant is also known for its toughness, able to
withstand a variety of temperatures and moisture conditions, which is why it's widely grown in
areas with warm or humid climates.
 Baby’s Tears
Botanical Name : Soleirolia Soleirolii
Soleirolia soleirolii, also known as baby's tears, is a low-growing, spreading
perennial that belongs to the nettle family (Urticaceae). This species is
originally from the western Mediterranean, especially in places like Corsica
and Sardinia. It has small, round leaves that are either bright green or yellow
and it flowers with small, unnoticeable white blooms.

Baby's tears prefer damp, shady spots and are frequently used as ground
cover in gardens or as indoor plants because they can handle low light
conditions. However, this plant can grow very quickly, which can lead to it
becoming somewhat invasive in some locations. Therefore, it's important to
keep an eye on its growth. It's also valued for its beauty, often being planted
with ferns or near water elements.
 Golden Dewdrop
Botanical Name : Duranta Erecta
Duranta erecta, also referred to as Golden Dewdrop, Pigeon Berry, or Skyflower, is a
flowering shrub belonging to the Verbenaceae family, originating from the tropical and
subtropical areas of the Americas. This shrub can reach heights of up to 20 feet and is
characterized by flowers that range from light blue to lavender, which typically appear
in groups and last from summer to fall. It bears small, round, yellow-orange berries
that are poisonous to both animals and humans, however, they are edible for
birds123.
A notable feature of Duranta erecta is its fast growth and tendency to spread out,
necessitating regular pruning to keep it in a desired form. Although it is popularly
grown for its aesthetic appeal, it has been identified as an invasive species in certain
locales.The leaves and unripe berries of this plant contain harmful substances that
have been associated with deadly cases in both animals and children. Despite its
allure, it's important to exercise caution when introducing this plant to a garden
setting.
 Bansai Banyan Tree
Botanical Name : Ficus Benghalensis
Ficus benghalensis, commonly known as the banyan tree, is the national tree of
India and a significant symbol of strength and resilience. This evergreen tree can
grow to heights of 20 to 30 meters, characterized by its expansive canopy and
unique aerial roots that descend from its branches, forming additional trunks.
The banyan tree is revered in various cultures, often associated with spirituality
and community gatherings, providing shade and shelter for both humans and
wildlife. It plays a crucial ecological role by supporting diverse bird and insect
populations, particularly fig wasps, which are essential for its pollination. The
longevity of banyan trees can exceed 200 years, with some specimens even
older. Found primarily in tropical and subtropical regions, Ficus benghalensis
thrives in warm climates, making it a common sight across the Indian
subcontinent. Its adaptability and impressive growth make it a remarkable
feature of the landscape.
 Sago Palm
Botanical Name : Cycas Revoluta
Cycas revoluta, commonly known as the sago palm, is an ancient
cycad species native to southern Japan. This evergreen plant can
grow up to 10 feet tall and resembles a palm due to its rosette of
feathery, dark green leaves. It is notable for its slow growth,
often taking years to produce new leaves. Caution is advised as
all parts of the plant are toxic, particularly the seeds, which
contain cycasin. Sago palms thrive in well-drained soil and prefer
bright light, making them popular ornamental plants in
subtropical landscapes
Japanese Spindle Tree
Botanical Name : Euonymus Japonicus
Euonymus japonicus, also referred to as the Japanese spindle
tree, is a perennial shrub or small tree that is indigenous to
Japan, Korea, and China. It usually reaches heights between 2 to
8 meters and is characterized by leaves that grow in pairs,
shaped like ovals, ranging from 3 to 7 cm in length, and have a
finely toothed edge. The plant produces inconspicuous greenish-
white flowers in groups, which are then followed by orange fruits
that are surrounded by pink seed covers. This species is favored
in landscaping and public areas for its decorative qualities and is
flexible in growing conditions. Certain varieties display vibrant
leaf patterns, adding to its visual attractiveness.
 Mose Rose Purslane
Botanical Name : Portulaca Grandifola
Portulaca grandiflora, often referred to as Moss Rose, is a fleshy herb
from its natural habitats in Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina. This yearly
plant is distinguished by its bright, eye-catching blooms in different
shades, such as pink, yellow, and red, which mainly appear in areas with
ample sunlight. It can reach heights of up to 15 cm and can spread
across a range of 60 cm, flourishing in soils that allow for good drainage.
Moss Rose can withstand periods without water and needs little
maintenance, making it a favorite choice for gardens and landscaping as
well as covering the ground. Furthermore, the seeds of Moss Rose are
safe for consumption, enhancing its appeal in both ornamental and
cooking uses.
 Spider Lily
Botanical Name : Crinum Asiaticum
Crinum asiaticum, commonly known as the giant crinum lily or
spider lily, is a perennial bulbous herb belonging to the
Amaryllidaceae family. Native to East Asia and tropical regions,
it features large, fragrant white flowers arranged in umbels and
can grow up to 1.2 meters tall. The plant is toxic, particularly its
bulb, containing alkaloids that can cause severe health issues if
ingested. Crinum asiaticum is often used ornamentally in
gardens and coastal areas due to its resilience against salt and
sandy soils
 Chinese Fan Palm
Botanical Name : Livistona Chinensis
The Chinese fan palm, scientifically referred to as Livistona
chinensis, is often referred to as the Chinese fan palm due to its
common name and is a native tree of the subtropical regions of
East Asia, including areas like southern Japan and Taiwan. It can
attain heights of up to 15 meters, known for its large, fan-like
leaves that span up to 2 meters in diameter. Its single trunk stands
tall and straight, often appearing smooth as the leaves mature and
new ones emerge. This palm is favored for cultivation inside due to
its safety for humans and its capacity to flourish in diverse
environments. Moreover, the seeds of this palm have healing
abilities, enhancing its value in gardening and traditional medical
practices.
 Mauritius Hemp
Botanical Name : Furcraea Foetida
Furcraea foetida, commonly known as Giant Cabuya or Mauritius
hemp, is a flowering plant native to the Caribbean and northern
South America. This monocarpic perennial can grow up to 3
meters tall, featuring long, sword-shaped leaves that can reach
1.8 meters in length. The plant produces a tall inflorescence with
fragrant greenish-white flowers, typically blooming once before
dying. It is cultivated for its fiber, similar to sisal, and is also used
ornamentally in gardens. While drought-tolerant, it benefits from
occasional watering during summer