Flora in Mudumalai

Mudumalai Flora

Mudumalai National Park is a fascinating terrain nestled in the Nilgiris district of Tamil Nadu. Mudumalai National Park is renowned for its rich and diverse flora, encompassing a wide range of tree, shrub, herb, climber, and grass species. The park features three primary types of forests. The first is the tropical moist deciduous forest, located in the western Benne Block, which receives more rainfall compared to other regions. The second is tropical dry deciduous forest, found in the central areas, while the third is tropical dry thorn forest in the eastern parts. Additionally, there are patches of tropical semi-evergreen forests in the southern and western regions of Mudumalai.

Mudumalai’s moderate climate and diverse geographical features contribute to its varied and abundant flora. Mudumalai National Park's terrain is diverse, comprising flatlands, undulating parkland, open grasslands, swamps, valleys, and streams.

Following are the Popular Flora Species Found in Mudumalai National Park

• Teak: Mudumalai National Park is renowned for its extensive teak plantations, which occupy a significant portion of the park.
• Sandalwood: The national park is home to sandalwood trees, highly valued for their aromatic wood and essential oils.
• Indian Rosewood: Indian Rosewood, also known as Sheesham, is a prominent tree species found within Mudumalai National Park.
• Bamboo: Mudumalai National Park hosts various bamboo species, including Bambusa arundinacea and Dendrocalamus strictus.
• Terminalia: Terminalia species, such as Terminalia arjuna and Terminalia bellirica, are present in the park and are known for their medicinal properties.
• Jamun: Jamun trees, also called black plum trees, thrive in the park and are recognized for their edible fruits.
• Tamarind: Tamarind trees, known for their sour fruits and medicinal benefits, are also found in Mudumalai.
• Grewia: Grewia species, including Grewia tiliaefolia and Grewia hirsuta, are noted for their medicinal uses in the park.
• Honeysuckle: The national park contains various species of Honeysuckle, such as Lonicera quinquelocularis and Lonicera macranthoides.
• Grasses: Mudumalai is rich in grass species, including Imperata cylindrica and Arundinella bengalensis.

In addition to these, Mudumalai is home to numerous flowering plants, ferns, and mosses, establishing it as a biodiversity hotspot in India.