New Tree Species Found in Assam Named After Botanist’s Mother

A new tree species named Garcinia kusumae has been discovered in Assam’s Baksa district. The tree, part of the Garcinia genus, was found by Jatindra Sarma, a senior botanist, and is named in memory of his late mother Kusum Devi. This discovery is important as it adds to India’s botanical diversity and highlights Assam’s rich plant heritage.

Discovery in Assam’s Forests

The species was found during a plant survey in April 2025 in Bamunbari, Baksa district, Assam. Botanist Jatindra Sarma, who is the Chairman of Assam’s State Expert Appraisal Committee, collected the sample of this tree, locally called thoikora. The plant was studied carefully using herbarium methods like drying and pressing. After identifying its special features, it was confirmed as a new species.

Named in Honour of His Mother

The tree has been named Garcinia kusumae to honour Mr. Sarma’s mother, Kusum Devi. This is the fourth time Mr. Sarma has named a new plant after a family member. Earlier, he named plants after his daughter, wife, and father. This makes him the first Indian botanist to name four different species after his close relatives.

Unique Features and Local Use

Garcinia kusumae is a tall evergreen tree that grows up to 18 metres. It flowers between February and April, and its fruits ripen from May to June. The plant looks similar to other Garcinia trees but has different flower and fruit features. The fruit has a black resin and is used in local food and medicine. People use the dried pulp to make a cooling drink or mix it with fish curries. It is also believed to help with diabetes and dysentery.

Published in a Global Journal

The findings were published in Feddes Repertorium, an international journal on plant taxonomy. Hussain A. Barbhuiya from Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Mumbai, co-authored the study with Mr. Sarma. Assam is home to 12 Garcinia species and 3 varieties, out of the 33 species found in India. This discovery shows how Assam continues to be a hotspot for new plant species.