Central Idea
- The genus Impatiens, locally known as Kasithumba and Onappovu, is currently enchanting tourists with its vibrant pink blooms in Munnar.
What are Balsams?
- Distinctive Feature: Balsams are commonly referred to as ‘touch-me-not’ due to the unique behavior of their mature seeds bursting open upon touch and distributing seeds.
- Sign of Active Micro-Climate: Botanists suggest that the extensive flowering of balsams in Munnar indicates the continued activity of the microclimate in this hill station.
- Indian Balsam Species: India hosts a total of 220 balsam species, with a significant presence of 135 species in the southern Western Ghats.
- Balsam Paradise: Idukki, particularly the high ranges around Anamudi, is renowned for its rich diversity of wild balsams. Scientists often term the district as a ‘balsam paradise.’
Conservation Efforts
- Balsams in Munnar: Munnar boasts 46 balsam species, extending from Munnar to Chinnar and Bison Valley.
- Protection in National Park: The Eravikulam National Park alone is home to over 40 wild balsam species, with the Forest Department ensuring their protection.
- Unparalleled Diversity: Prasad G, working plan officer, highlights that Munnar’s altitude has unveiled 46 balsam species, a level of diversity unmatched elsewhere in the world.
- Indicator Species: Balsams play a crucial role as indicator species for climate change. Any alterations in the climate of a region are often reflected in the population of these plants.
