Solidago virgaurea L.-Pinja phool (पिंजा फूल )Chui-ghas. 

Family: AsteraceaeSynonyms:Aster minutus,Aster virgaurea,Dectis decurren,Doria virgaurea,Solidago alpestris,Solidago armena,Solidago cambrica,Solidago cantoniensis,Solidago caucasica,Solidago corsica,Solidago dahurica,Solidago gebleri,Solidago insularis,Solidago jailarum,Solidago japonica,Solidago lapponica,Solidago lapponica stenophylla,Solidago macrorrhiza,Solidago minor,Solidago minuta,Solidago nudiflora,Solidago pygmaea,Solidago stenophylla,Solidago talyschensis,Solidago taurica,Solidago turfosa,Solidago vulgaris.Common Name: Himalayan GoldenrodLocal Name-Pinja phool,पिंजा फूल )Chui-ghas , Pinja phool is a herbaceous perennial  plant of Western Himalays that can grow up to 60cm tall. It is an easily growing plant, that  can succeeds well  in any moderately fertile moisture retentive soil of sunny  to  semi-shady habitat. Pinja…

Trichosanthes cucumerina L. var. cucumerina-Jangali Parod (जंगलीपरोड ).

Family: CucurbitaceaeSynonyms: Trichosanthes anguina LCommon Name: Snake GourdLocal Name: Jangali Parod (जंगली परोड ). Jangali Parod is an annual herbaceous climber that can sprawl over the ground or climb upon  other plants for support. Vine of Jangali Parod attaches itself to support  by means of tendrils and its slightly twining stems. Jangali Parod   is commonly seen growing…

Lygodium japonicum (Thunb.) Sw.-Fern –bel (फ़र्न वेल )

Family: SchizaeaceaeSynonyms:Hydroglossum dissectum, Hydroglossum japonicum, Lygodium chaerophylloides, Lygodium chochinchinense, Lygodium dissectum, Lygodium mearnsii, Lygodium microphyllum, Lygodium microstachyum. Lygodium pubescens, Lygodium tenue, Ophioglossum japonicum.Common Name:  Vine-like fern, Japanese Climbing FernLocal Name: Fern -bel (फ़र्न  वेल) Fern -bel is a slender, deciduous, climbing vine of family Schizaeaceae. It is easily recognized by its wide-creeping rhizome and elongated…

Solanum villosumMill.- Jangli Tamatar( जंगली टमाटर)

. Family: SolanaceaeSynonyms: Solanum alatum, Solanum asperum, Solanum canescens, Solanum flavum, Solanum flavum, Solanum hildebrandtii , Solanum humile, Solanum incanumm Solanum kitaibelii, Solanum luteovirescensm Solanum luteum, Solanum miniatum, Solanum minutiflorum,Solanum morella luteum, Solanum nigrum alatum, Solanum nigrum alatum, Solanum nigrum humile, Solanum nigrum luteovirescens, Solanum nigrum luteum, Solanum nigrum luteum, Solanum nigrum miniatum, Solanum nigrum puniceum, Solanum nigrum rubrum, Solanum nigrum villosum, Solanum nigrum villosum, Solanum nigrum villosum, Solanum nigrum villosum, Solanum nilagiricum, Solanum ochroleucum, Solanum olivaceum, Solanum paludosum, Solanum patens, Solanum plebeium, Solanum pseudovillosum, Solanum puniceum, Solanum roxburghii, Solanum rubrum, Solanum transcaucasicum, Solanum villosum, Solanum…

Paris polyphylla Sm.-Nag Chattri (नाग छत्री)

Family: MelanthiaceaeSynonyms: Daiswa birmanica, Daiswa bockiana,Daiswa chinensis,Daiswa lancifolia,Daiswa polyphylla,Daiswa yunnanensis,Paris aprica,Paris arisanensis,Paris atrata,Paris biondii,Paris bockiana,Paris brachysepala,Paris cavaleriei,Paris chinensis,Paris christii,Paris daiswus,Paris debeauxii, Paris formosana,Paris franchetiana, Paris gigas,Paris hamifer,Paris kwantungensis, Paris lancifolia, Paris marchandii,Paris mercieri, Paris pinfaensis, Paris taitungensis,Paris yunnanensis.Common Name: Herb ParisLocal Name: Nag Chattri (नाग छत्री) Acc to local people of Western Himalaya (Mandi, Himachal…

Trilium govanianum Wall. Ex D. Don – Nag Chhatri (नाग छत्री)

Family: TrilliaceaeSynonyms: Trillidium govanianumCommon Name: Himalayan TrilliumLocal Name: Nag Chhatri (नाग छत्री) Nag Chhatriis a robust, trifoliate herbaceous perennial   of Western Himalayas. It is found growing between an altitude range of 2700m-4000m.The genus name of this plant Trillium is derived from the prefix “tri”meaning “three” both in Latin and ancient Greek because each Trillium flower has  three leaves,three petals and three sepals. On…

Prinsepia utilis Royle.- Bhekal (भेखल)

Family: RosaceaeCommon name: Himalayan Cherry PrinsepiaLocal name: Bhekal(भेखल), Bhaeklu, Garandu, Gurinda, Kharngura Bhekal is a spinous deciduous shrub of Western Himalayas found growing between an altitudinal range of 900 to 2700m. It is commonly seen growing in forest, barren land, field margins, dry slopes, hillsides usually near spring or water-courses. Bhekal requires well-drained sunny habitat for…

Boletus edulis- Dounde (डौँडे)

Family: BoletaceaeCommon name: Penny Bun , Cep , Porcini, King Bolete, Wicsen Gron, Borowik Szlachetny, Ízletes Vargánya.Local Name: Dounde (दौंडे) Dounde arechunky-looking mushrooms with a cap that looks like a well-baked bread roll. They are among delicious wild edible mushrooms of Western Himalayas which are commonly found growing in the rainy season from warm subtropics to cold temperates….

Solanum erianthum D. Don- Rada (रडा ). Trikhada, Akra, Ban Tamakhu

Family: SolanaceaeSynonym: Solanum adulterinum, Solanum verbascifolium Common name: Big Eggplant, Mullein Nightshade, China flowerleaf, Potato tree, Wild Tobacco treeLocal name: Rada (रडा ), Trikhada, Akra, Ban Tamakhu Rada is 3- 6m tall, shrub of Western Himalayas bearing  dense, stellate tomentum covering on flowers. That’s might be the reason that species name erianthum is given to this plant.  The specific epithet, erianthum, is derived from the Greek words ἔριον (erion),…

Justicia adhatoda L.- Basuti (बसूटी)

Family: AcanthaceaeSynonyms: Adhatoda adhatoda, Adhatoda arborea, Adhatoda vasica,Adhatoda zeylanica,Dianthera latifolia,Ecbolium adhatoda, Ecbolium latifolium  Gendarussa adhadota Common Name: Malabar Nut TreeLocal Name: Basuti (बसूटी) Basuti is a tall, much-branched, dense and evergreen shrub of Western Himalayas with large, lance-shaped leaves. It bears white flowers with sweet nectar at base, unpleasant smell and bitter taste. It is native…

Malvaviscus penduliflorus Mocino & Sesse ex DC.-Dhadoonj(धढून्ज) Laal phool (लालफूल)

Family: Malvaceae Synonym: Malvaviscus arboreus Cav. Var. penduliflorus, Malvaviscus longifoliusCommon name: Pendulous Sleeping Hibiscus, Turk’s cap mallowLocal name: Dhadoonj, Laal phool(लाल फूल) Dhadoonj is a shrub or small deciduous tree of Western Himalayas that can grow upto 5-10 metres tall. It can grow as wide as tall. Genus name of Dhadoonj comes from the Latin words ‘malva’,…

Saurauia napaulensis DC.- Gugna (गुगना)

Family: Actinidiaceae (Kiwifruit family)Common Name: GoganLocal Name: Gugna (गुगना) Gugna is a small to medium sized  tree of Western Himalayas  It is occasionally seen growing in forest, thickets,roadsides and  hill slopes up to  an altitude. of 2500m. Gugna  grows best in well drained partial shade to sunny habitat. It is propagated further through seeds.  Ripe fruits of Gugna are sugary, sweet and edible. They are usually eaten raw. Ripe fruits are also…

Ficus semicordata Buch.-Ham. ex Sm.-  Choti Debre ( छोटी डेब्रे), Bhui Uoomre  (भुईउमरे),

Family: Moraceae (Mulberry family)Synonyms:  Covellia conglomerata,Covellia cunia,Covellia inaequiloba, Ficus conglomerata, Ficus cuneata,Ficus cunia,Ficus hapalophylla,Tremotis cordata.Common Name: Wedgeleaf FigLocal Name: Choti Debre (छोटी देब्रे), Bhui Uoomre (भुईउमरे) Choti Debre is a multipurpose small to medium sized tree of Western Himalaya bearing a flat, spreading, umbrella-like crown.  It is commonly seen growing on rocky slopes along road, pathways, forest…

Butea monosperma (Lam.) Taub- Plah (प्लाह)‌.Palash

Family: FabaceaeSynonyms: Butea frondosa,Erythrina monosperma,Phaso monosperma.Common Name: Bastard Teak, Butea Gum, Flame of Forest, Battle of Plassey tree, Bengal kino, Palas tree, Parrot tree.Local Name: Plah (प्लाह)‌.Palash, Plah is a slow-growing small to medium-sized, deciduous tree of Western Himalayas found growing up to an altitude of 1500m. It is a well-known medicinal and religious plant…

Spondias pinnata(L.f.) Kurz- Ambuara (अबुआडा), Ambade.

Family: AnacardiaceaeSynonyms: Mangifera pinnata, Poupartia pinnata, Spondias acuminata; Spondias amara; Spondias mangifera;Tetrastigma megalocarpum.Common Name: AmbraLocal Name: Ambuara (अबुआडा), Ambade.Ambara Ambuara is a Medium sized, mild deciduous tree that can grow up to 25 to 40 metres tall. Ithas been part of the human diet since time immemorial. Its fruits are widely consumed both raw and…

Buddleja asiatica Lour.-Neemda(नीमदा)

Family: BuddleiaceaeSynonyms: Buddleja asiatica Buddleja arfakensis, Buddleja discolor, Buddleja neemdaCommon Name: White Dog Tail, White Butterfly  bush, Chinese White Butterfly bush.Local Name: Neemda (नीमदा).  Neemda is an evergreen,1to 3 m tall shrub of Western Himalayas bearing flowers with  a pleasant  odour. It is commonly seen growing upto an altitude of 1500m  along roadsides, pathways, shrublands and ravines on open slopes. Neemda requires a well  drained  sunny  habitat with loamy soil for optimum growth. It can easily propogate…

Callicarpa macrophyllaVahi-Dahin mangal(दही मंगल), Sans, Priyangu

Family: Verbenaceae.Synonym: Callicarpa dunniana, Callicarpa incanaCommon name: Perfumed Cherry. Beauty berryLocal Name:  Dahin mangal (दही मंगल), Sans, Priyangu Dahin mangal  is an evergreen to subdeciduous shrub or small tree  of western Himalaya found growing upto an altitude of 1800m. It is commonly seen growing in waste areas and roadsides specially in swampy localities and ravines….

Alternanthera sessilis (L.) R.Br. ex DC.- Bhangru  (भांगरु)

Family: AmaranthaceaeSynonyms: Alternanthera denticulate, Alternanthera nodiflora, Alternanthera repens, Alternanthera triandra, Gomphrena sessilis, Illecebrum sessile Common Name:  Stalk less  Joyweed, sessile joyweed, Dwarf copperleaf, Joyweed,Periquito Sessil.Local Name: Bhangru ( भांगरु ) Bhangru is an erect, ascending or creeping herbaceous annual to perennial plant of Western Himalayas. It shows luxuriant growth and quite often considered as a weed…

Vigna vexillata (L.) A. Rich- Junglee Mung (जंगली मूंग).

Family: FabaceaeCommon Name:  Zombi pea, Wild Mung, Wild cowpeaSynonyms: Dolichos angustifolius, Dolichos cylindricus, Phaseolus quadriflorus, Phaseolus vexillatus, Plectrotropis angustifolia,Plectrotropis hirsute, Strophostyles capensis ovatus, Vigna angustifolia, Vigna crinite, Vigna davyi, Vigna dinteri, Vigna dolichonema, Vigna golungensis, Vigna hirta, Vigna lobatifolia, Vigna phaseoloides, Vigna senegalensis, Vigna thonningii, Vigna tuberosa. Local Name:   Janglee Mung (जंगली मूंग). Junglee Mung is a vigorous twining or scrambling vine of Western Himalayas with…

Hippophae rhamnoides L.- Thermang (थेर्मंग) 

Family:  ElaeagnaceaeSynonyms: Elaeagnus rhamnoides, Hippophae littoralis; Hippophae salicifolia sinensis; Rhamnoides hippophae.Common Name: Sea BuckthornLocal Name:Thermang (थेर्मंग), Charma/ Thermang is a spiny, deciduous shrub or small tree, usually growing 1 to 15 metres tall. The Genus name Hippophae of Thermang is   derived from two Latin words ‘Hippo’ means Horse and ‘Phae’ means to shine.  It can…

Pavetta indica L.- Gandharb-badhadda (गंधरव- बधाड़ा)

Family: RubiaceaeSynonyms: Pavetta alba, Pavetta amabilis, Pavetta assamica,Pavetta bengalensis, Pavetta brunonis, Pavetta cerniflora, Pavetta griffithii, Pavetta neglecta  Pavetta obtuse, Pavetta polyneura,Pavetta rothiana, Pavetta thomsonii, Pavetta tomentosglabrescens, Pavetta villosa, Ixora indica,Ixora nunypapata, Ixora paniculata,Ixora pavetta, Ixora roxburghii,Ixora tomentosa glabrescens, Ixora velutina.Common Name: White Pavetta, Indian Pavetta, Indian Pellet ShrubLocal Name: Gandharb-badhadda (गंधरव- बधाड़ा) Gandharb-badhadda is a…

Crassocephalum crepidioides (Benth.) S.Moore –  Lal phulnu ghaa (लाल फुलनू घा)

Family: AsteraceaeSynonyms: Crassocephalum diversifolium,Gynura crepidioides,Gynura diversifolia,Gynura microcephala, Gynura polycephala.Senecio crepidioides.Senecio diversifolius.Common Name: Okinawa SpinachLocal Name: Lal phulnu ghaa (लाल फुलनू घा) Lal phulnu ghaa is a perennial herb of Western Himalaya growing up to 1 metre tall.It is found growing as a weed in waste places, grassland, under trees, abandoned farm land, and backyard gardens….

Broussonetia papyrifera (L.) – Jangli Toot (जंगली तूत)

Family: MoraceaeSynonyms: Broussonetia billardii; Broussonetia cordata; Broussonetia cucullata; Broussonetia dissecta; Broussonetia elegans; Broussonetia kasii; Broussonetia kazi:Broussonetia maculate; Broussonetia nana; Broussonetia navicularis; Broussonetia navifolia; Broussonetia spathulata; Broussonetia tricolor; Morus papyrifera; Papyrius japonica; Papyrius papyrifera; Papyrius polimorphus; Smithiodendron artocarpioideum.Common Name: Paper MulberryLocal Name: Jangli Toot(जंगली तूत) Jangli Toot is a medium to large sized deciduous tree of…

Boerhavia diffusa L.-  Punarnava (पुनर्नवा)

Family: NyctaginaceaeCommon Name: Spreading HogweedSynonyms: Axia cochinchinensis,  Boerhavia adscendens, Boerhavia caespitose, Boerhavia ciliatobracteata, Boerhavia coccinea leiocarpa, Boerhavia coccinea paniculata, Boerhavia friesii, Boerhavia paniculata, Boerhavia repens diffusa, Boerhavia xerophila.Local Name:  Punarnava(पुनर्नवा) Punarnava is a perennial diffuse herb of Western Himalayas with stout root stock and many procumbent branches. It is widely known for its rejuvenating,  re-establishing…

Opuntia ficus –indica (L.) Mill – Kabuli chhoonh (काबलीछूंह)

Family: CactaceaeSynonyms: Cactus ficus-indica; Opuntia megacantha; Opuntia paraguayensis.Common Name:  Sweet prickly pear, Barbary fig, Cactus pear, Indian fig, Indian fig prickly pear, Indian-fig, Mission cactus, Mission prickly pear, Prickly pear cactus, Prickly-pear, Smooth mountain prickly pear, Smooth prickly pear, Spineless cactus,Local Name: Kabuli chhoonh (काबलीछूंह(       Kabuli chhoonh is a frequently growing wild edible succulent found…

Thymus linearis Benth -Jangali ajwain (जंगली अजवाइन)

Family: LamiaceaeSynonym: Thymus serpyllum, Thymus himalayicus, Thymus himalayicus, Thymus afghanicus, Thymus baluchistanicusCommon Name:  Himalayan Thyme, Wild Thyme, Mother of Thyme, Creeping Thyme,Local Name: Jangali ajwain (जंगली अजवाइन) Jangali ajwain which is commonly known as Himalayan Thyme or Mother of Thymeis one ofimportant aromaticplants of Western Himalayas with tremendous medicinal and economic value. Ithas been used…

Youngia japonica (L.)DC.- Choti  Dudhali (छोटी दुधली)

Family: AsteraceaeSynonym: Prenanthes japonica, Crepis japonicaCommon Name: Asiatic or oriental false]hawk’s beard. Japanese HawkweedLocal Name- Choti  Duhali (छोटी दुधली)  Choti  Dudhali is  a cosmopolitan  edible weed of North Western Himalayas  with  rich medicinal value. It is commonly seen growing  in moist shady places in garden, orchards , waste ground, cultivated fields, roadsides,  mountain slopes, mountain valleys, forests and forest margins  upto…

Polygonatum cirrhifolium (L.)-Salam mishri (सालम मिश्री)

Family– AsparagaceaeSynonym: Convallaria cirrhifoliaCommon Name: Coiling leaf Solomon seal, Coiling leaf Polygonatum Local Name: Salam mishri (सालम मिश्री) Salam mishri is a suberect to erect perennial  herb of Western Himalayas  commonly found growing as a  forest undergrowth between an altitudinal range  pf 1800-3200m. It usually  prefers a fertile humus rich soil in moisture retentive, well-drained  cool shady or semi-shady habitat. Salam mishri  grows in forests at margins of woods, clearings and…

Fagopyrum esculentum Moench.- Phaphra (फाफरा)

Family: Polygonaceae Synonym: Fagopyrum cereal, Fagopyrum dryandri, Fagopyrum emarginatum, Fagopyrum esculentum, Fagopyrum sagittatum, Fagopyrum sarracenicum, Fagopyrum subdentatum, Fagopyrum vulgare, Fagopyrum zuogongense, Helxine Fagopyrum,Kunokale carneum, Phegopyrum emarginatum, Phegopyrum esculentum, Polygonum cereal,Polygonum dioicum,Polygonum elegans,Polygonum emarginatum, Polygonum gracile, Polygonum macropterum, Polygonum nepalense, Polygonum pyramidatum. Common Name: Buckwheat Local Name:  Phaphra (फाफरा) Phaphra is an annual herbaceous plant found…

Smilax aspera L.- Bagru-bel (बगरू बेल)

Family: SmilacaceaeSynonyms: Smilax balearica, Smilax brevipes, Smilax capitata, Smilax catalonica, Smilax conferta, Smilax excelsa, Smilax goetzeana, Smilax inermis, Smilax intricatissima, Smilax longipes, Smilax maculata, Smilax mauritanica, Smilax mauritanica, Smilax nigra, Smilax nilagirensis, Smilax oxycarpa, Smilax peduncularis, Smilax pendulina, Smilax picta, Smilax platyphylla, Smilax rettiana, Smilax rigida, Smilax sagittata, Smilax sagittifolia, Smilax saxicola, Smilax tetragona, Smilax variabilis, Smilax…

Corylus jacquemontii Decne -Thngi (थांगी)

Family:  BetulaceaeSynonym:  C. colurna jacquemontii. C. laceraCommon Name: The Himalayan Hazel, Turkish Hazel.Local Name:  Thngi (थांगी), Bhotia, Badam, Pamakhor, Khabsi,  Shirol  Thngi is a medium sized shrub to deciduous tree  of Western Himalayas generally found growing  in woods, hedgerow and on the slopes of hills from 2200 to 3300 m. It is among the most expensive nut of this region and needs cold and hilly terrain…

Toddalia asiatica L.- Jangali Kalimirc (जंगली कालीमिर्च)

Family: RutaceaeSynonyms: Aralia labordei, Paullinia asiatica,Toddalia aculeata,Toddalia angustifolia,Toddalia floribunda,Toddalia nitida,Toddalia rubricaulis,Toddalia tonkinensis.Common Name: Forest pepper, lopez-root tree, Wild Orange tree.Local Name:  Jangali Kalimirc (जंगली कालीमिर्च) Jangali Kalimirc  is a prickly, climbing, evergreen shrub of Western Himalayas  attaining 15-20m hight.  It is  occasionally seen growing in shrubberies in scrub forests and forests near rivers or streams upto an altitude of 1500m. Jangali Kalimirc stems attach themselves…

Rubia cordifolia L.- Majeet (मंजीत ), Pagalpathi, Usba

Family: RubiaceaeSynonym: Dioscorea verticillata, Galium cordifolium, Rubia alata, Rubia clematifolia, Rubia conotricha, Rubia cordata, Rubia javana, Rubia lanceolata, Rubia longipetiolata, Rubia mitis, Rubia pratensis, Rubia pubescens, Rubia purpurea, Rubia scandens, Rubia secunda, Rubia sylvatica.Common Name: Indian MadderLocal  Name: Majeet (मंजीत ), Pagalpathi, Usba. Majeet is a climbing or creeping herbaceous perennial of Western Himalayas identified with 4-angled stem and branches…

Ehretia acuminata (R.Br.) var. serrata (Roxb.) Johnst- Punyan (पून्या)

Family: EhretiaceaeSynonyms: Cordia thyrsiflora, Ehretia argyi, Ehretia kantonensis. Ehretia polyantha, Ehretia serrata, Ehretia taiwaniana, Ehretia thyrsiflora.Common Name:  KodowoodLocal Name: Punyan (पून्या) Punyan is small to medium-sized, deciduous tree  of Western Himalayas ranging from 3 to 15 m in height. It is  with a dense canopy bearing dense sprays of delicately scented, white flowers. In spring Punyan is in full bloom. It is then  followed by…

Cyanotis cristata (L.) D.Don- kana ghaa (काना घा )

Family: CommelinaceaeCommon name: Crested Dew-GrassSynonyms: Cyanotis cristata, Commelina cristata, Cyanotis cavaleriei, Cyanotis huegelii,Cyanotis imbricata,Cyanotis racemosa, Ephemerum cristatum,Siphostigma cristata,Tonningia cristata, Tradescantia imbricata ; Tradescantia cristata, Zygomenes cristata. Local name: kana ghaa (काना घा ) kana ghaa is a prostrate herbaceous annual to perennial succulent plant of Western Himalayas. It can have erect or ascending branches reaching up to 15-30 cm long. Leaves are fleshy and  hairy…

Chamaecrista absus (L.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby-Chaksoo (चकसू)

Family: FabaceaeSynonyms: Cassia absus,Cassia babylonica, Cassia coccinea, Cassia exigua, Cassia foliolis, Cassia thonningii, Cassia viscida, Grimaldia absus, Grimaldia absus, Grimaldia opifera, Senna absus, Senna exigua, Senna quadrifolia.Common Name: Pig’s SennaLocal Name:  Chaksoo (चकसू) Chaksoo is a sparsely-branched, erect or sometimes more or less clambering, annual of Western Himalayas  commonly seen growing  on grassy slopes, up to an altitude of 1500…

Peperomia pellucida (L.)-Poori patta (पूरी पत्ता)

Family: Piperaceae Synonyms: Micropiper pellucidum; Peperomia concinna; Peperomia ephemera; Peperomia translucens; Piper concinnum; Piper pellucidum, Peperomia exigua,Common name: Shiny Bush, Slate pencil plant, pepper elder, rat’s ear, Silverbush Local Name: Poori patta (पूरी पत्ता) Poori patta  is a slender herbaceous annual to perennial succulent  of Western Himalayas. It is  commonly seen growing  on old walls, moist or wet thickets or…

Anisomeles indica (L.)- Kala bhangra (काला भंग्रा), Codhara

Family: LamiaceaeSynonyms: Ajuga disticha, Ajuga glabrata, Ajuga mollissima, Anisomeles albiflora, Anisomeles disticha, Anisomeles glabrata, Anisomeles malabarica albiflora, Anisomeles mollissima, Anisomeles ovata, Anisomeles secunda, Anisomeles tonkinensis, Ballota disticha, Ballota mauritiana, Epimeredi indicus, Epimeredi secundus, Marrubium indicum, Monarda zeylanica, Nepeta amboinica, Nepeta disticha, Nepeta indica, Phlomis albaCommon name: Indian Catmint, Malabar catmintLocal Name: Kala bhangra (काला भंग्रा), Codhara Kala bhangra is…

Dysphania ambrosoides (L.)- Dunger ajwain (डंगर अजवाइन), Longo

Family: ChenopodiaceSynonyms:Ambrina ambrosioides, Ambrina incisa, Ambrina parvula, Ambrina spathulata, Atriplex ambrosioides, Blitum ambrosioides, Botrys ambrosioides, Chenopodium album ambrosioides, Chenopodium amboanum, Chenopodium ambrosioides, Chenopodium angustifolium, Chenopodium citriodorum, Chenopodium cuneifolium, Chenopodium integrifolium, Chenopodium opulifolium amboanum, Chenopodium querciforme, Chenopodium sancta-maria, Chenopodium santamaria, Chenopodium spathulatum, Chenopodium suffruticosum, Chenopodium vagans, Chenopodium variegatum. Orthosporum ambrosioides,Orthosporum suffruticosum, Teloxys ambrosioides, Teloxys vagans, Vulvaria ambrosioides….

Grewia optiva J. R. – Bihul (बिहुल)

Family: TiliaceaeSynonym: Grewia oppositifoliaCommon Name: Bhimal, biul, beul, bhiunal, dhaman, bihul.Local  Name: Beul, Bihul  (बिहुल) Bihul  is a deciduous or semi-decidous small to moderate-sized multipurpose tree of Western Himalayas. It is extensively used as  fodder, fuel and material.  Its  multifarious traditional uses includes;  ripe  fruits are eaten; wood employed for making cot frames and tool handles;  Infusion of leaves and bark used as shampoo; shoots are…

Abrus cantoniensis Hance – Safed rati (सफ़ेद रत्ती), Naryaanae.

Family:  FabaceaeSynonyms: , Abrus melanospermus, Abrus fruticulosus, Abrus gorsei, Abrus mollis, Abrus pulchellus, Abrus repens, Abrus stictospermus, Abrus tenuiflorus.Common Name: Liquorice Root,Guangdong Abrus, Guangzhou Abrus, Canton AbrusLocal Name: Safed rati (सफ़ेद रत्ती),,Naryaanae Safed rati  is a branched woody climber of  Western Himalayas ocassionaly found along roadside, scrub jungles,valley forests, in moist slopes  of shrubs and bushes up to an altitude of 1800m in Western Himalayas. It…

Sigesbeckia orientalis (L.)-Teenpath (तीनपथ)

Family: AstraceaeSynonyms: Minyranthes heterophylla, Sigesbeckia brachiata, Sigesbeckia caspica, Sigesbeckia gracilis, Sigesbeckia humilis, Sigesbeckia iberica Common Name: Holy herb, Indian-weed, stickyweed,Local Name: Teenpath (तीनपथ) Teenpath is a plant of  tropical and subtropical regions and is commonly present throughout India. It usually grows  wild and frequently found in  open, waste lands, roadsides, fallow fields and forest  up to  an altitude of 2400m in Western Himalayas. Teenpath grows  best where the…

Grewia tilifolia vahl.- Pharsu (फारसू)

Family: TiliaceaeSynonyms: Grewia arborea, Grewia rotunda, Grewia inaequalisCommon Name: DhamanLocal  Name: Pharsu (फारसू)  Dhaman.   Pharsu is a medium to large sized deciduous tree of Western Himalayas found  growing in margins of field, roadsides, open woodlands, shrublands, grasslands  and hills at an altitude of 1800 m. It grows well in bright sunny तो light shady well drained habitat and propagate both  by…

Aconitum heterophyllum Wall. ex Royle – Atis (अतीस), Patish

Family: RanunculaceaeSynonyms: Aconitum atees, Aconitum cordatum, Aconitum kashmiricum, Aconitum ovatum, Aconitum petiolare. English Name: Atis roots, Indian Atis, Hin, Atis.Local Name: Atis (अतीस), Patish Atis is a perennial herbaceous medicinal wild edible plant  of Western Himalayas found growing upto an altitude of 2,300 -2,900 metres.  Stem  is eract that can be branched or unbranched and can grow 15 – 90 cm to 200 cm. tall…

Podophyllum hexandrum (Royle.)-Bankakri (बनककरी)

Family: Podophyllaceae.Synonym: Sinopodophyllum hexandrum, Podophyllum emodiCommon Name:  Himalayan May Apple, Indian Podophyllum,  Local  Name: Bankakri (बनककरी) Bankakri is native  and endemic1 plant of Himalayas, which is widely used in traditional and modern medicine. Rhizomes  of this plant yield podophylline and podophyllotoxin which are used in production of modern anticancerous drugs 2. Bankakri  is  succulent, eract herbaceous  and glabrous  plant arises from creeping long knotty rhizomes. Its stem is with…

Cissampelos pareira (L.) – Bhatindu (भटिण्डू)

Family: Menispermaceae Synonym: Cissampelos acuminata,Cissampelos acuminata, Cissampelos argentea, Cissampelos auriculata, Cissampelos australis, Cissampelos benthamiana, Cissampelos boivinii, Cissampelos bojeriana, Cissampelos caapeba, Cissampelos caapeba, Cissampelos canescens, Cissampelos cocculus, Cissampelos consociata, Cissampelos convolvulacea, Cissampelos cordata, Cissampelos cordifolia, Cissampelos cumingiana, Cissampelos delicatula, Cissampelos diffusa, Cissampelos discolor, Cissampelos discolor, Cissampelos diversa, Cissampelos elata,Cissampelos ellenbeckii, Cissampelos eriocarpa, Cissampelos glaucescens,Cissampelos gracilis,Cissampelos grallatoria,Cissampelos guayaquilensis,Cissampelos haenkeana,Cissampelos…

Dactylorhiza hatagirea (Necker ex Nevski)-Salampanja (सालमपंजा)

Family: Orchidaceae Synonym: Orchis hatagirea Common Name: Hatta Haddi Local Name : Salampanja (सालमपंजा), Hathajari Salampanja  is a temperate to alpine, monocotyledonous, perennial, orchid of Western Himalayas which grows from palmately lobed rhizome. The  genus name  Dactylorhiza of Salampanja is based on the finger like shape of its  rhizome, it is  derived from Greek word “daktylos”  meaning  finger and  “rhiza”  meaning  root. Thus Dactylorhiza reffer…

Rosa canina (L.)- Ban Gulab (बन-गुलाव)

Family: Rosaceae Synonyms:  R. balsamica ,R. caesia, R. corymbifera,R. dumalis, R. montana, R. stylosa, R. subcanina, R. subcollina Common name:  Dog Rose Local Name:  Ban  Gulab  (बन-  गुलाव) Ban  Gulab  is a perennial deciduous shrub  that comes from family Rosaceae . It grows wild at the margin of forests, shrubberies, pastures hedges, scrub, woods, roadsides and  banks etc  upto an altitude of 2000…

Hellenia speciosa (J.Koenig) S.R.Dutta- Kevkand (केव कंद)

Family:  Costaceae Synonyms: Amomum arboretum,.Amomum hirsutum,Banksea speciosa.Cardamomum arboretum,Cheilocostus speciosus,Costus angustifolius,Costus argyrophyllus,Costus crispiflorus,Costus foeniculaceus,Costus formosanus,Costus glaber, Costus glabratus, Costus hirsutus,Costus lamingtonii,Costus loureiroi, Costus nipalensis,Costus potierae, Costus sericeus, Costus speciosus,Costus vaginalis, Hellenia grandiflora, Kaempferia speciosa, Planera speciosa, Tsiana speciosa.Common Name: Crepe Ginger, cane-reed, Malay ginger, spiral flag, spiral ginger, wild ginger.Local Name : Kevkand (केव कंद) Kevkand is a beautiful ginger with a clustering edible…

Equisetum arvense L.- Nali ( नली), Dandli.

Family: EquisetaceaeSynonyms: Equisetum calderi. Equisetum saxicola Equisetum arvense subsp. Boreale,Equisetum arvense subsp. Ramulosum,Equisetum arvense var. Arcticum,Equisetum arvense var. campestre.Equisetum arvense var. Ramulosum.Equisetum boreale,Equisetum. calderi, Equisetum campestre Equisetum saxicola.Common Name: Field Horsetail, Common Horsetail, bottlebrush, foxtail, jointed rush, horse pipes, mare’s tail, snake grass.Local Name: Nali (नली ), Dandli. Nali is a herbaceous perenial plant (fern) of Western Himalayas with hollow, jointed stems containing large amounts of silica and silicic acids. It is a  cosmopolitan fern which  grows in variety of…

Urena lobata (L.)- Badi-dredae (बड़ी दरीडे)

Family:  Malvaceae Common Name: Bur Mallow Synonym: U. cana, U. palmata.U americana, U. grandiflora U. reticulata, U. trilobata  Local Name: Badi–dredae (बड़ी दरीडे)  Badi-dredae is a herbaceous annual to perennial plant of Western Himalayas  commonly seen growing  as a weed in fallow fields, wastelands, scrub, forest  and roadsides, up to an altitude of 2000m. It is more frequent on moist shady places and easily…

Clinopodium vulgare (L.)-Jangali Tulsi (जंगली तुलसी) 

Family: LamiaceaeSynonym: Calamintha clinopodium, Clinopodium vulgarisCalamintha vulgaris, Clinopodium vulgare var. neogaea, Satureja vulgaris, Satureja vulgaris var. diminuta, Satureja vulgaris var. neogaeaCommon Name: Wild Basil,Cushion Calamint,  Dog mintLocal Name: Jangali Tulsi (जंगली तुलसी)  Jangali Tulsi  is an herbaceous short perennial of Western Himalayas that can live  for  more than two years. It grows well in  variety of habitat like dry grassy places along banks and hedgerows, open woodland, on the…

Drymaria cordata (L.)-Padyala (पडयाला), Kharish-gulab

Family: Caryophyllaceae Synonyms: Holosteum cordatum,Cerastium cordifolium, Drymaria diandra, D. cordata sensu, D. cordata subsp. diandra.D. extensa, Stellaria adenophora, Drymaria procumbens, Alsine rotundifolia. Common Name: Tropical Chickweed, chickweed, drymaria, heartleaf drymary, West Indian chickweed Local ame:  Padyala (पडयाला), Kharish-gulab.  Padyala  is a  herbaceous annual of Western Himalayas  quite frequently seen growing  in cultivated land,  grassland, forest margins, roadsides,  pathways, garden and…

Prunus cerasoides var. majestica (Buch. -Ham.ex D. Don))- Paja (पाजा)

Family: RosaceaeSynonym: P. puddum, P. cerasoides, P. sylvatica, Cerasus puddum, C. phoshia.Common Name: Himalayan Wild Cherry, Bird Cherry.Local  Name: Paja (पाजा) Paja is a medium  to large sized deciduous tree of Western Himalayas,  that can grow up to  30 metres tall. Unlike other members of this family paja is in full bloom  in autumn (October to November) when its others  close relative…

Pinus gerardiana (Wall. ex D. Don)- Neoza (नेऊजा),Chilgoza

Family: PinaceaeSynonyms: Pinus gerardii, Pinus neosa, Pinus chilgoza, Pinus aucklandiiCommon Name: Chilgoza Pine Local Name: Neoza (नेऊजा), Chilgoza. Neoza is an evergreen coniferous  tree of Western Himalayas restricted to mountain ranges of India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan. It’s plant is with a deep, wide and open crown comprising long, erect branches. It is found  growing on sunny, dry, steep, rocky slopes in dry…

Taxus contorta Griff.-Rakhal (रखाल)

Family: TaxaceaeSynonyms: Taxus fuana,Taxus wallichiana subsp. contorta.Taxus Baccata  subsp. WallichianaCommon name: Yew,West Himalayan yew, Local Name:   Rakhal (रखाल)  Rakhal is  a medium to large sized tree of Western Himalayas found growing in forest,  road-side, sunny edges, dappled shade and shady revrine up to an altitude of 2000 to 3500m. It is generally middle sized, but some times grows very large, with a large spreading crown. Rakhal…

Eruca sativa Mill.- Taarameera (तारामीरा)

Family: BrassicaceaeSynonyms: Brassica eruca, Brassica erucoides, Brassica erucoides, Brassica lativalvis,Brassica pinnatifida, Brassica turgida, Brassica uechtritziana, Brassica vesicaria, Crucifera eruca,Eruca aurea, Eruca cappadocica, Eruca deserti, Eruca drepanensis, Eruca eruca, Eruca foetida, Eruca glabrescens Eruca grandiflora, Eruca lanceolata,Eruca latirostris, Eruca longirostris, Eruca longistyla Eruca oleracea, Eruca orthosepala, Eruca permixta, Eruca pinnatifida, Eruca ruchetta , Eruca sativa, Eruca stenocarpa, Eruca sylvestris, Eruca vesicaria…

Citrus jambhiri Lush.- Jhamirdi (झमीरडी), jambiri, jambheri, jatti khatti, khatti.

Family: RutaceaeCommon Name: Rough LemonLocal Names: Jhamirdi (झमीरडी), jambiri, jambheri,  jatti khatti, khatti. Jhamirdi is a medium to large, spreading tree of Western Himalaya found growing wild along the roadways, pathways, margins of fields, hill slopes and other sunny habitat. It is found upto an altitude of 1200 m in Western Himalayas. Its plant has…

Citrus pseudolimon Tanaka- Galgal (गलगल), Khtta.

Family: RutaceaeSynonyms: Citrus penivesiculata, Citrus reticulataCommon Name: Galgal, Khtta, Hill lemon.Local Name:Galgal (गलगल), Khtta. Galgal is a medium sized wild or semi-wild fruit of Western Himalayas found growing along roadsides, pathways, hill margins and field edges up to an altitude of 3000 m in the hill states of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and…

Hedychium coronarium J.Koenig- Safed.- Banadark (सफ़ेद बनअदरक), Shoyee

Family: ZingiberaceaSynonyms: Amomum filiforme, Gandasulium coronarium, Gandasulium lingulatum, Hedychium chrysoleucum, Hedychium gandasulium, Hedychium lingulatum, Hedychium maximum, Hedychium prophetae, Hedychium spicatum, Hedychium sulphureum, Kaempferia hedychium.Common Name: Butterfly Ginger, Butterfly Ginger Lily, White Ginger Lily, Garland Flower. wild gingerLocal Name: Safed – Banadark (सफ़ेद बनअदरक)  Safed- Banadark is a perennial deciduous, herb of Western Himalaya displaying delicate,…

Vitex negundo L. – Bana (बणा), Banae, Surae

Family: LamiaceaeSynonyms: Agnus-castus incisa, Agnus-castus negundo, Verbena cannabifolia, Vitex agnus-castus negundo, Vitex agnus-castus negundoides, Vitex arborea, Vitex cannabifolia, Vitex chinensis, Vitex elmeri, Vitex gracilis, Vitex incisa, Vitex laciniate, Vitex leucoxylon, Vitex microphylla, Vitex simplicifolia, Vitex sinuate, Vitex spicata.Common Name: Huang PingLocal Name: Bana (बणा), Banae, Surae. Nirgundi Bana is a branched shrub or a small…

Artocarpus lacucha (Buch. -Ham) – Dheu (ढेऊ)

Family: MoraceaeSynonyms: Artocarpus lakoocha,  Artocarpus ficifolius Common Name: Lakoocha, Monkey JackLocal Name: Dheu (ढेऊ), Lakuch (लकूच), Lakooch, (लकूची) Lakoochi, badahara, (बढ़ल) Barhal, Dahu, Dahua Dheu is a small to large deciduous tree of Western Himalaya with a dense, spreading crown. It is not very frequent in hills but can grow up to an altitude of…

Impatiens sulcata- Halu ghaa (हलू घा)

Family:  Balsaminaceae Synonyms: Impatiens gigantea Common Name: Dog flower Local Name: Halu ghaa (हलू घा), Chaul, Kwal.   Halu ghaa is an annual herbaceous plant of Western Himalaya that is in flower and fruiting from June to September. It is found growing along canals and pathways in forests, shrubberies, cultivated land and other shaded moist…

Amorphophallus paeoniifolius (Dennst.) Nicolson- Jangli suran (जंगली सुरण)

Family:  AraceaeSynonyms: Amorphophallus bangkokensis, Amorphophallus campanulatus, Amorphophallus chatty, Amorphophallus decurrens, Amorphophallus dixenii, Amorphophallus dubius.Amorphophallus giganteus, Amorphophallus gigantiflorus , Amorphophallus malaccensis, Amorphophallus microappendiculatus, Amorphophallus sativus,Amorphophallus virosus,  Arum campanulatum, Arum decurrens, Arum phalliferum, Arum rumphii, Arum rumphii,Candarum hookeri, Candarum roxburghii, Candarum rumphii, Conophallus giganteus, Conophallus sativus, Dracontium paeoniifolium, Dracontium polyphyllum, Dracontium polyphyllum, Hydrosme gigantiflora, Kunda verrucose, Plesmonium nobile, Pythion campanulatum.Common Name: Elephant- Foot YamLocal Name:    Jangli suran (जंगली सुरण) Jangli suran is a perennial…

Senna floribunda (Cav.) H.S.Irwin & Barneby- Allon (अललों)

Family:   Fabaceae Synonyms; Adipera arsenei. Adipera bicolor, Cassia corymbosa, Cassia floribunda.Cassia grandiflora,.Cassia herbertiana, Cassia hybrida  Chamaefistula floribunda. Chamaefistula herbertiana. Local name: Allon (अललों) Allon is a free flowering, evergreen, large sized shrub or small tree of Western Himalaya.It is frequently seen growing along roadsides, hills, grassland, wooded grassland, river-banks, papyrus-swamps, upland dry evergreen forest, in…

Mangifera indica L. – Aam (आम), Amra

Family: Anacardiaceae Synonyms: Mangifera amba, Mangifera domestica Mangifera gladiate,Mangifera racemose,Mangifera rubra. Common Name: Mango Local Name: Aam (आम), Amra Aam is a well-known large, evergreen tree very famous for its delicious fruits which are fondly eaten and liked by all. Being one of the most popular fruits in the world, it is often called as…

Pyracantha crenulata (D. Don) M. Roemer, – choota seb (छोटा- सेब), Hawthorn.

Family: RosaceaeCommon Name: Nepalese White Thorn, Nepalese firethornSynonyms: Mespilus crenulate, Crataegus crenulataLocal Name: Choota seb (छोटा- सेब), Hawthorn. Choota seb is a large evergreen shrub. occasionally found on open slopes and shrubberies along roadsides, stream and grassy places upto an altitude of 1000-2400 m in Western Himalayas. It spread and propagate with the help of…

Eclipta prostrata (L.) L. – Bhringraj (भृंगराज), Bhangra.

Family: Asteraceae Synonyms: Acmella lanceolate, Amellus carolinianus .Anthemis abyssinica.Anthemis bornmuelleri, Anthemis bourgaei, Anthemis cotuloides, Anthemis galilaea, Anthemis sulphurea, Anthemis viridis, Artemisia viridis, Bellis racemose, Buphthalmum diffusum, Chamaemelum foetidum, Cotula alba, Cotula prostrata. Eclipta adpressa, Eclipta alba, Eclipta angustifolia. Eclipta arabica, Eclipta brachypoda, Eclipta ciliate, Eclipta dentata, Eclipta dichotoma,Eclipta dubia, Eclipta erecta, Eclipta flexuosa, Eclipta heterophylla,…

Dioscorea deltoidea Wall. ex Griseb. – Singali- mingali (सिंगली- मींगली)

Family:  DioscoreaceaeSynonyms:  Tamus nepalensis, Dioscorea nepalensisCommon Name: Nepal Yam Local Name: Singali- mingali (सिंगली- मींगली) Singali- mingali is aherbaceous perennial climber commonly found scattered in shrubberies from 1500- 3000 m altitudinal range in Western Himalaya. It grows as a vine that climb & supports itself by twining around the branches of other plants. It can grow easily…

Prunella vulgaris L.- Neela ghoongru ghaa (नीला घूँघरू घा)

Family:  LamiaceaeSynonyms: Prunella asiatica, Prunella japonica,Prunella cinereal,Prunella hispida,  Prunella stolonifera,Prunella aequinoctia, Prunella algeriensis, Prunella alpine, Prunella angustifolia, Prunella australasica, Prunella australis, Prunella browniana, Prunella caerulea, Prunella capitellata,Prunella cordata, Prunella dissecta, Prunella elongate, Prunella fischeriana, Prunella gracillicaulia, Prunella heterophyla, Prunella hirsute, Prunella hirta, Prunella incisa, Prunella latifolia, Prunella longifólia, Prunella mariquitensis,Prunella microphylla, Prunella novae-angliae, Prunella obtusifolia,…

Cotoneaster microphyllus Wall. ex Lindl.- Khilgu (खिलगु), Chaddu

Family: Rosaceae Synonym: Cotoneaster rupestris,  Cotoneaster emarginatus  Mespilus microphylla , Cotoneaster elatus,   Cotoneaster microphyllus. Common Name: Littleleaf, Cotoneaster, Small-leaved cotoneaster Local Name:Khilgu (खिलगु)                                                                        Khilgu is much branched evergreen shrub that can be seen growing on slopes in montane pastures and waysides upto an altitude of 2000 to 3000 m in Western Himalaya. It is often found trailing on rocks or…

Dioscorea pentaphylla L. -Dareghal (दरेघल)

Family: DioscoreaceaeSynonyms: Botryosicyos pentaphyllus, Dioscorea changjiangensis, Dioscorea codonopsidifolia, Dioscorea digitate, Dioscorea globifera, Dioscorea jacquemontii, Dioscorea kleiniana, Dioscorea spinosa, Dioscorea triphylla, Hamatris triphylla, Ubium quadrifarium, Ubium scandens.Common Name: Buck Yam, Five Leaf Yam, Mountain yam, Wild yam, Prickly yamLocal Name: Dareghal (दरेघल) In Western Himalaya two plant are identified with the same name dareghal  one is…

Schizophyllum commune Fries -Khookh (खुख)

Family: Schizophyllaceae Synonnyms: Agaricus alneus, Agaricus alneus, Agaricus multifidus, Apus alneus,  Merulius alneus, Merulius alneus, Merulius communis, Schizophyllum alneum, Schizophyllum alneum, Schizophyllum commune var. multifidum,Schizophyllum multifidum. Common Name: Split gill fungus Local Name: Khookh (खुख) This mushroom is usually found growing on dead decaying woods as a sessile bracket but rarely it also grows as a parasitic…

Achillea millefolium L.- Losar (लोसर), Gandan.

Family: AsteraceaeSynonyms: Achillea albida, Achillea alpicola, Achillea ambigua, Achillea ambigua, Achillea anethifolia,Achillea angustissima, Achillea Arenicola,  Achillea bicolor, Achillea borealis, Achillea californica, Achillea ceretanica, Achillea compacta, Achillea coronopifolia, Achillea crassifolia, Achillea cristata. Achillea cuspidate, Achillea dentifera, Achillea eradiate, Achillea fusca, Achillea gigantea, Achillea gracilis, Achillea haenkeana, Achillea intermedia, Achillea lanata, Achillea lanulosa, Achillea laxiflora, Achillea laxiflora,…

Conyza canadensis (L.) Cronquis- Gujju ghaa (गुजू घा)

Family: Asteraceae Synonym: Aster canadensis,Caenotus canadensis, Erigeron canadensis.Conyza parva,Conyzella canadensis,   Erigeron myriocephalus. Erigeron pusillus, Erigeron setiferus, Erigeron strictus, Leptilon canadense, Leptilon pusillum, Marsea canadensis, Senecio ciliates, Trimorpha canadensis. Common Name: Canada Fleabane, Horseweed, Canadian horseweed. Local Name: Gujju ghaa (गुजू घा) Gujju ghaa is a annual herbaceous plant of Western Himalaya commonly seen growing up…

Curcuma aromatica Salisb. – Van haldi (वन हल्दी)

Family:  ZingiberaceaeSynonyms: Curcuma wenyujin, Curcuma zedoaria.Common Name: Wild TurmericLocal Name Van haldi (बन हल्दी) Van haldi is aherbaceous perennial plant of Western Himalaya, which develop from tuberous rootstock. Its plant is commonly seen growing on open grassy slopes, hills & meadows upto an altitudinal range of 1000m in Western Himalaya. Van haldi propagate by seeds…

Chaerophyllum reflexum Lindl.- Jangli gazar (जंगली गाजर ), Bul, Nyoch.

Family: Apiaceae   Synonyms: Chaerophyllum cachemiricum Common name: Kashmir Chervil Local Name:Jangli gazar (जंगली गाजर ), Bul, Nyoch. Jangli gazar is a herbaceous erect hairless or sparsely hairy plant, having small flat-topped clusters of white flowers. It is frequently seen growing in forest, slopes, around field and meadow up to an altitude of 1800- 3600…

Micromeria biflora (Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don.) Benth.- Pushanbanda (पूषनबंदा)

Family: Lamiaceae Synonyms: Micromeria ovata, Clinopodium biflorum,Micromeria biflora var. indica, Satureja biflora, Thymus biflorus Common Name: Lemon Scented Thyme Local Name: Pushanbanda (पूषनबंदा) Pushanbanda is a perennial aromatic herb of Western Himalaya. It is commonly seen growing on slopes along waysides, pathways, in gardens and wastelands between altitudinal range of 700- 2000 m. Plant can…

Hypericum perforatum L.- Basanti (बसन्ती)

Family: HypericaceaeSynonyms: Hypericum deidesheimense, Hypericum vulgare, Hypericum lineolatum, Hypericum mixtum.Common Name: St. John’s Wort, Common St. Johnswort, Hypericum, Klamath Weed.Local Name: Basanti (बसन्ती) Basanti is a herbaceous perennial plant of Western Himalaya. Its beautiful yellow bloom of from summer to rainy season of the year deliver a majestic scenic beauty to nature lover and a…

Termitomyces microcarpus (Berk. & Broome) R. Heim, Mem.- Bhatolian (भतोलियाँ)

Family: LyophyllaceaeSynonyms: Agaricus microcarpus, Entoloma microcarpum, Gymnopus microcarpus, Podabrella microcarpa, Termitomyces microcarpus, Termitomyces microcarpus.Local Name:Bhatolian (भतोलियाँ) Many types of mushrooms appear in Himachal Pradesh during spring and rainy seasons, especially in forest lands rich in organic matter. Though there are some poisonous types too, many of them are edible and these are collected and eaten…

Lepidium didymium L.- Jangli halon (जंगली हालोन)

Family: Brassicaceae Synonyms: Carara didyma, Coronopus didymus, Senebiera didyma,Senebiera incisa,Senebiera pinnatifida, Common Name: Swine Wartcress, Bitter Cress, Lesser Swinecress, Wart cress Local Name: Jangli halon (जंगली हालोन) Jangli halon is a small herbaceous annual plant growing in rosette on ground.  Initially it is with prostate stem which become ascending with growth. Jangli halon is considered…

Hedychium spicatum Buch.-Ham – Shoyee (शौए), sati, Banadark.

Family:   ZingiberaceaeSynonyms:  Gandasulium sieboldii, Gandasulium spicatum, Hedychium acuminatum, Hedychium album, Hedychium flavescens, Hedychium sieboldii, Hedychium tavoyanum, Hedychium trilobum.Common Name:  Kapoor Kachri, Ginger lily, Spiked Ginger Lily.Local Name:  Shoyee (शौए), sati, Banadark. Shoyee is a perennial leafy herb growing up to 1.5 meters tall. It is frequent along damp- shady grassy slopes, khuds, nallahs, and moist…

Cyclospermum leptophyllum (Pers.) Sprague ex Britton & P.Wilson – Jungli ajwain (जंगली अजवाइन ), pahadi ajwain.

Family:  Apiaceae Synonyms: Aethusa leptophylla,Apium ammi, Apium depressum, Apium leptophyllum,Apium rivulare, Apium tenuifolium, Cnidium tenuifolium, Cyclospermum ammi, Cyclospermum ammi, Helosciadium heterophyllum, Helosciadium lateriflorum, Helosciadium leptophyllum, Helosciadium ranunculifolium, Oreosciadium andinum, Pimpinella domingensis, Pimpinella lateriflora, Pimpinella leptophylla, Ptychotis leptophylla, Selinum leptophyllum, Seseli ammi, Sison ammi. Common Name: Slender Celery, marsh parsley, fir-leaved celery Local Name: Jungli ajwain…

Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers- Patharkhar (पथरखार), Patharchatta, Patharchur, parnabija

Family:  CrassulaceaeSynonyms: Bryophyllum calycinum, Bryophyllum germinans, Bryophyllum pinnatum, Bryophyllum pinnatum, Calanchoe pinnata, Cotyledon calycina, Cotyledon calyculata, Cotyledon calyculata, Cotyledon pinnata, Cotyledon rhizophylla, Crassula pinnata, Crassuvia floripendia, Crassuvia floripenula, Kalanchoe brevicalyx, Kalanchoe calcicole, Kalanchoe calycinum, Kalanchoe floripendula, Kalanchoe pinnata, Sedum madagascariense, Vereia pinnata.Common Name: Mother of Millions, Air Plant, Donkey Ears, Life Plant, Leaf of Life,…

Lotus corniculatus L.- Peula ghaa (पीउला घा)

Family: Fabaceae Synonyms: Lotus ambiguous, Lotus arvensis, Lotus balticus, Lotus carpetanus, Lotus caucasicus, Lotus komarovii, Lotus major, Lotus olgae, Lotus ruprechtii, Lotus tauricus, Lotus zhegulensis, Lotus japonicus, Lotus frondosus. Common Name: Bird’s Foot Trefoil Local Name: Peula ghaa (पीउला घा) Peula- ghaa is a perennial herb producing numerous decumbent to ascending stems from a taproot….

Eriobotrya japonica (Thunb.)Lindl. – Lukhat (लूखाट)

Family: RosaceaeSynonyms: Crataegus bibas, Mespilus japonica, Photinia japonica.Common Name: LoquatLocal Name:  Lukhat (लूखाट) Lukhat is an evergreen shrub or small tree of Western Himalaya. It is prominently seen growing along borders of agriculture fields, roadsides, pathways and near habitations up to an altitude of 1500 m. Lukhat is known for its edible fruits. Its plant…

Salvia lanata Roxb.- Chakor ka ghass (चकोर का घास)

Family: Lamiaceae Synonyms: Salvia canna, Salvia mukerjeei, Salvia integrifolia Common name:  glass-wort Local Name: Chakor ka ghass (चकोर का घास) Chakor ka ghass is a perennial herbaceous plant of Western Himalaya found growing between an altitude of 1500 -3000 m. It is commonly seen growing in open dry slopes at field margins, hilly slopes and…

Conyza bonariensis [L.] Cronquist- Gooju ghaa (गुजू घा).

Family: Asteraceae Synonyms: Erigeron bonariensis, Conyza angustifolia, Conyza hispida. Common name: Flaxleaf Fleabane, Hairy Fleabane, Ragweed, Rough conyza, Tall fleabane Local Name:  Gujju ghaa (गुजू घा) There are two plant called by the same local name gujju ghaa in Western Himalaya, but identified by two different botanical names viz. Conyza bonariensis and conyza canadensis of family Asteraceae….

Allium ampeloprasum L. Luhan (लुहन)

Family: AlliaceaeSynonyms: Allium adscendens, Allium albescens, Allium ascendens, Allium bertolonii, Allium byzantinum, Allium duriaeanum, Allium durieuanum, Allium firmotunicatum album, Allium gasparrinii, Allium helleri, Allium holmense, Allium laetum, Allium leucanthum, Allium lineare,Allium multiflorum, Allium pardoi, Allium polyanthum, Allium porraceum, Allium pylium, Allium rotundum multiflorum, Allium rotundum polyanthum, Allium scopulicola, Allium spectabile, Allium syriacum, Allium thessalum, Porrum…

Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb.- Magaru ghaa (मगरू घा)

Family: Amaranthaceae Synonyms: Achyranthes paludosa, Achyranthes philoxeroides, Alternanthera philoxerina, Bucholzia philoxeroides, Celosia amphibia, Mogiphanes philorexoides, Telanthera philoxeroides. Common Name:  Alligator weed, alligator grass, mukuna-menna, pannankarni, pig weed. Local. Name:  Magaru ghaa (मगरू घा) Magaru ghaa is an herbaceous, perennial plant of Western Himalaya, commonly seen growing in aquatic and semiaquatic or terrestrial habitats up to…

Lepidium sativum L.- Halae (हले), helium.

Family: Brassicaceae Synonym: Cardamon sativum, Lepidium hortense, Lepidium sativum var. crispum, Lepidium hortense. Lepidium spinescens, Nasturtium crispum, Nasturtium spinescens, Thlaspi sativum, Thlaspidium sativum. Common Name: Garden cress Local Name: Halae (हले), helium. Halae is a profusely-branched, erect, annual herb commonly seen growing as a weed in waste places and cultivated lands up to an altitude of 800-2000 m…

Lamium album L. – Ruksha (रूक्षा)

Family: Lamiaceae Common Name: White dead nettle, blind nettle, dumb nettle, deaf nettle, bee nettle Local Name: Ruksha(रूक्षा)  Ruksha is a hairy perennial herb found growing in fields, hedgerows, woodland edges, clearings and moist waste places. It is very common in damp places along waysides upto an altitude of 1800- 3000 m in Western Himalaya….

Lepidium virginicum L.- Alon (अलों)

Family:  Brassicaceae Synonyms: Discovium gracile, Discovium ohiotense, Lepidium diandrum, Lepidium majus, Lepidium praecox, Nasturtium majus. Common Name: Wild Pepper Grass Local Name:Alon (अलों) Alon is an erect herbaceous annual of Western Himalaya, commonly seen growing along roadsides, fields, waste land, disturbed sites, prairies and pastures up to an altitude of 1500 m.  It is usually…

Oxalis debilis var. corymbosa (DC.) Lourteig–Malora ghaa (मलोरा घा)

Family: Oxalidaceae Synonyms: Oxalis corymbosea Oxalis martiana, Common Name: Lilac Oxalis Local Name: Malora ghaa (मलोरा घा)  Malora ghaa is a perennial, stemless herb arising from basal bulb. It is seen growing in damp shady places along wayside, roadsides and as a weed in gardens and cultivated fields. It is commonly present up to an…

Berberis lycium Royle- kasmalae (कसमले), Daruhaldi.

Family: Berberidaceae Synonym: Berberis afghanica, Berberis angustifolia, Berberis heteracanth, Berberis vulgaris. Common name: Indian Lycium, Indian Barberry, Boxthorn Barberry. Local Name:  kasmalae (कसमले), Daruhaldi. Kasmalae is a gregarious spiny, shrub abundantly found growing on open hill slopes and shrubberies, up to an altitude of 2,500 m in Western Himalaya. It usually grows well on hot dry…

Duchesnea indica (Andrews.) Focke. – Bhuin ankhe (भुई आखे)

Family: Rosaceae Synonyms: Fragaria indica Common Name: Mock Strawberry, False Strawberry, Indian Strawberry, Yellow-flowered Strawberry. Local Name: Bhuin ankhe (भुई आखे) Bhuin ankhe is a softly- silky perennial herb of Western Himalaya, commonly found growing in cool and moist shady places, on hill slopes, cultivated fields, wastelands and forests, up to 2400 meters. The plant…

Galium aparin L. -Kuri (कुरी), Dhanpatri.

Family: RubiaceaeSynonyms: Aparine hispida, Aparine vulgaris, Asperula aparine, Asterophyllum aparine, Crucianella purpurea, Galion aparinum,Galium aculeatissimum,Galium adhaerens, Galium aparine, Galium asperum, Galium australe, Galium borbonicum, Galium charoides, Galium chilense.Galium chonosense, Galium hispidum, Galium horridum, Galium intermedium, Galium lappaceum, Galium larecajense, Galium parviflorum, Galium pseudoaparine, Galium segetum, Galium tenerrimum, Galium uliginosum, Galium uncinatum, Rubia aparine. Common Name: GoosegrassLocal Name:…

Plantago lanceolata L. – Safed isbagol (सफ़ेद इशबगोल), Chashe re pach, Baltanga.

Family: Plantaginaceae Synonyms: Arnoglossum lanceolatum,Lagopus lanceolatus,Lagopus timbale, Plantago abyssinica,Plantago ambigua, Plantago argentea, Plantago attenuate, Plantago azorica, Plantago byzantine, Plantago capensis,  Plantago capitate,Plantago contorta, Plantago dalmatica, Plantago decumbens, Plantago dubia, Plantago elata, Plantago eriophora,Plantago flexuosa,Plantago gerardi, Plantago glabriflora, Plantago glareosa, Plantago hirsute, Plantago hungarica, Plantago intermedia, Plantago irrigua, Plantago kurdica, Plantago lanata, Plantago lanceifolia, Plantago lanceolate,…

Alliaria petiolata (M.Bieb.) Cavara & Grande – Masru ghaa (मशरू घा)

Family:  BrassicaceaeSynonyms: Alliaria alliacea, Alliaria alliaria, Alliaria fuchsii,Alliaria mathioli, Alliaria officinalis,  Arabis alliaria, Arabis petiolata, Clypeola alliacea, Crucifera alliaria , Erysimum alliaceum, Erysimum alliaria, Erysimum cordifolium, Hesperis alliaria, Sisymbrium alliaceum, Sisymbrium alliaria. Common Name: Garlic MustardLocal Name: Masru ghaa (मशरू घा) Masru ghaa is an erect, biennial herb of Western Himalayas producing a single or branched…

Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. – Raie (राई)

Family:  Brassicaceae Synonyms: Brassica argyi, Brassica arvensis juncea, Brassica besseriana, Brassica cernua,Brassica chenopodiifolia, Brassica integrifolia, Brassica japonica, Brassica juncea japonica, Brassica lanceolate, Brassica napiformis, Brassica richeri,Brassica rugosa, Brassica taquetii, Brassica willdenovii, Crucifera juncea, Raphanus junceus, Rhamphospermum volgense, Sinabraca juncea, Sinapisa byssinica, Sinapis brassicata, Sinapis campestris, Sinapis cernua, Sinapis chinensis, Sinapis cuneifolia. Sinapis japonica, Sinapis juncea,…

Lamium amplexicaule L. – Topnu ghaa (टोपनु घा)

Family: Lamiaceae Synonym: Galeobdolon amplexicaule, Lamiella amplexicaulis, Lamiopsis amplexicaulis, Pollichia amplexicaulis. Common Name: Henbit Local Name:Topnu ghaa (टोपनु घा) Topnu ghaa is an annual plant that can grow up to an altitude of 1000- 3000 m in Western Himalaya. It is frequent in meadows, marshes, roadsides, in cropland, pastures, in waste areas, in gardens, lawns…

Fagopyrum dibotrys (D.Don.)Hara. – Kathu (काठू)

Family: Polygonaceae Synonyms: Fagopyrum cymosum, Fagopyrum emarginatum, Polygonum chinense, Polygonum dibotrys. Common Name: Perennial Buckwheat Local Name: Kathu (काठू). Kathu is an easily grown annual to perennial herb of Western Himalaya commonly found growing along roadside, pathways, moist shady slopes, ditches, fertile soils and in forests up to an altitude of 1600- 3500 meters. It…

Thlaspi arvense L.- Chopda ghaa (चोपड़ा घा)

Family: BrassicaceaeSynonyms: Thlaspi collinum, Crucifera thlaspi, Thlaspidium arvenseCommon Name: PennycressLocal Name: Chopda ghaa (चोपड़ा घा) Chopda ghaa is an annual herbaceous plant of family Brassicaceae showing very close resemblance with another wild growing member of this family shershni (Botanically Capsella bursa-pastoris and commonly called Shepherd’s Purse}. But it can be easily identified with the help of…

Fumaria indica (Hausskn.) Pugsley – Pitpapra (पीतपापरा), parpataka.

Family: Fumariaceae Synonyms: Fumaria parviflora var. indica, Fumaria vaillantii var. indica Common Name: Indian Fumitory Local Name: Pitpapra (पीतपापरा), parpataka Pitpapra is a small, much- branched, herbaceous annual plant of Western Himalaya. It is found growing wild in plain to mid hills zones up to an altitude of 1800 meters. Pitpapra is very common weed…

Erigeron annuus (L.)Pers- Phuntha (फुंठा)

Family: AsteraceaeSynonyms: Aster annuusCommon Name: Annual Fleabane. The daisy fleabaneLocal Name:  Phuntha (फुंठा) Phuntha is an annual to perennial herb with hairy stems and hairy leaves. It is a pretty, but ubiquitous plant that seems to appear on its own in wild habitat. Phuntha is commonly seen growing on shady moist slopes, fields, roadsides and…

Gamochaeta pensylvanica (Willd.) Cabrera – Dhoodu (धूडू)

Family:   Asteraceae Synonyms:  Gnaphalium pensylvanicum, Gnaphalium peregrinum, Gnaphalium purpureum var. spathulatum, Gnaphalium spathulatum. Common name: Spoonleaf purple everlasting, Pennsylvania Cudweed. Local Name: Dhoodu (धूडू) Dhoodu is an annual herb having light green leaves with woolly hairs on the surfaces. Contradictory to its name, it is native plant of South America in spite of Pennsylvania. This plant is commonly seen growing…

Veronica agrestis L.- kindu badyala (किन्दु बड्याला)

Family: Plantaginaceae Synonyms: Cardia agrestis, Cochlidiosperma agreste, Pocilla agrestis. Common Name: Field Speedwell. Local Name: kindu badyala (किन्दु बड्याला) kindu badyala is a weed of cultivated fields, gardens, kitchen gardens and  also found growing in forest, in foothills and sloppy mountains upto an elevation of 1,800 meters in Western Himalayas. It is a profusely branched…

Lathyrus sativus L. – Khesari (खेसरी). Sudu

Family:   Fabaceae Synonyms: Lathyrus asiaticus Common Name: Chickling Pea Local Name: Khesari (खेसरी), Sudu Khesari is a much-branched, annual herbaceous vine growing from a long but thin, well-developed taproot. It is found growing upto an altitude of 800 to 1000 m in Western Himalaya. Khesari is mostly present as a weed of cultivated crops like…

Trifolium repens L. – Jangali parseen (जंगली परसीन)

Family: FabaceaeSynonyms: Amoria repens, Lotodes repens, Trifolium biasolettii, Trifolium Limonium, Trifolium macrorrhizum, Trifolium nevadense, Trifolium occidentale, Trifolium orbelicum, Trifolium orphanideum, Trifolium stipitatum.Common Name: White CloverLocal Name: Jangali parseen (जंगली परसीन) Jangali parseen is an evergreen perennial herb of Western Himalaya, very frequent in grasses meadows up to an altitude of 2500-3000 meters. It grows well…

Anagallis arvensis L.- Chandni (चाँदनी), Neela gha

Family: Primulaceae Synonyms: Anagallis arabica, Anagallis caerulea, Anagallis caerulea, Anagallis carnea, Anagallis coerulea, Anagallis foemina, Anagallis hadidii, Anagallis indica, Anagallis jacquemontii, Anagallis latifolia, Anagallis mas, Anagallis micrantha, Anagallis monellin, Anagallis orientalis, Anagallis parviflora, Anagallis parviflora, Anagallis phoenicea, Anagallis pulchella, Anagallis punctifolia, Anagallis repens, Anagallis verticillate, Lysimachia arvensis, Lysimachia foemina. Common Name: Scarlet Pimpernel Local Name:…

Silene vulgaris (Moench) Garcke – Jhunjhunu gha (झुञ्झुणु घा)

Family: CaryophyllaceaeSynonyms: Behen alpinus, Behen angustifolius, Behen fabarius, Behen glareosus,Behen oleraceum, Behen puberulus, Behen trachiatus, Behen vesicarius, Behen vulgaris, Behenantha behen, Behenantha cserei, Behenantha glaucescens, Behenantha inflata, Behenantha saponariifolia, Cucubalus alpinus, Cucubalus angustissimus,Cucubalus antelopum,Cucubalus behen, Cucubalus inflatus, Cucubalus latifolius, Cucubalus littoralis, Cucubalus marginatus, Cucubalus montanus, Cucubalus personii, Cucubalus rotundifolius, Cucubalus saponariifolius, Cucubalus scaber, Cucubalus venosus,…

Cardamine hirsuta L.- Gujjar ghas (गुज्जर घास)

Family:   BrassicaceaeSynonyms: Cardamine hirsuta subsp. Hirsute, Cardamine hirsuta var. formosana, Cardamine multicaulis, Cardamine scutata var. formosana, Cardamine umbrosa.Common Name: Hairy BittercressLocal Name: Gujjar ghas (गुज्जर घास) Gujjar ghas is an annual plant of Western Himalaya which found growing upto an altitudinal range of 700- 2500 meters. It is with finely lobed leaves showing symmetrical rosette…

Tulipa clusiana Redoute – Titru ka phool (तितरु का फूल), Mingha, Mareenu.

Family: Liliaceae Synonyms: Tulipa praecox, Tulipa rubroalba, Tulipa stellate, Tulipa hispanica,  Liriactis albiflora,Tulipa fernandezii, Tulipa porphyreochrysantha, Tulipa aitchisonii, Tulipa hafisii,Tulipa chitralensis, Tulipa grey-wilsonii, Tulipa oreophila. Common Name: lady tulipLocal Name: Titru ka phool (तितरु का फूल), Titru ka phool is an erect, glabrous, bulbous herb of Western Himalaya known for its attractive beautiful spring bloom….

Robinia pseudoacacia L. – Rumeunii (रुमेउनी)

Family:  Fabaceae Synonyms: Robinia pringlei,Robinia pendula,Robinia pyramidalis. Common Name: Black Locust Local Name:   Rumeunii (रुमेउनी) Rumeunii is a spiny, rapidly growing deciduous tree of Western Himalaya with an open, irregular crown. It is seen growing in woods and thickets up to an altitude of 2000 m in natural habitat. Plant is also planted along roadsides…

Arctium lappa L. – Jangli Knuth(जंगली कुंठ).

Family: AsteraceaeSynonyms: Arcion majus, Arcion tomentosum,Arctium adhaerens, Arctium bardana, Arctium chaorum, Arctium grandiflorum, Arctium lappa, Arctium leiospermum, Arctium majus, Arctium minus nemorosum, Arctium ruderale, Arctium vulgare, Arctium vulgare, Bardana arctium, Bardana lappa, Lappa glabra, Lappa major, Lappa nemorosa, Lappa officinalis, Lappa platylepis, Lappa vulgaris.Common Name: Great BurdockLocal Name: Jangli kunth (जंगली कुंठ) Jangli kunth is…

Vitis flexuosa Thumb. – Jangali angoor (जंगली अंगूर)

Family: VitaceaeSynonyms: Vitis parviflora, Vitis purani. Vitis wallichii. Vitis cavalerieiCommon Name: Himalayan wild grapeLocal Name: Jangali angoor (जंगली अंगूर) Jangali angoor is a deciduous woody climber which prefers to grow in well-drained sunny or semi-shade habitat in Western Himalaya.  It is common in scrub forests and roadsides, over bushes and shrubs in dry or moist…

Parthenocissus semicordata (Wall.) Planch. – Mandrau (मंदरौ), Phlankur.

Family: VitaceaeSynonym: Vitis himalayana, Ampelopsis himalayana, Ampelopsis neilgherrensis, Cissus anaimalaiensis, Cissus himalayana, Cissus roylei, Cissus semicordata, Parthenocissus anamalayana , Parthenocissus cuspidifera, Parthenocissus himalayana, Psedera himalayana,Quinaria anamalayana, Quinaria cuspidifera ,Quinaria himalayana,Quinaria neilgherriensis, Quinaria semicordata,Vitis anamalayana,Vitis cuspidifera,Vitis himalayana,Vitis himalayana, ,Vitis macrophylla,Vitis neilgherrensis,Vitis scortechinii ,Vitis semicordata  Common name: Himalayan Woodbine, Wild Grape BhambtiLocal Name: Mandrau (मंदरौ), Phlankur. Mandrau is a large…

Rumex acetosa L.- Mil-malori (मिल-मलोरी)

Family: PolygonaceaeSynonyms: Acetosa hastifolia, Acetosa amplexicaulis, Acetosa officinalis.Common Name: SorrelLocal Name: Mil-malori (मिल-मलोरी) Leaves and flowers of this plant are mainly used in making chutneys, kachru and garnishing of food items. Above ground parts and roots are cooked into a delicious vegetable while dried seeds, roots and leaves are ground into powder which is used…

Foeniculum vulgare Mill. – Meethi- saunf (मीठी-सौंफ) Saunf, Sans. Madhurika.

Family: Apiaceae Synonyms:  F.capillaceum, f.officinale, F.dulce, F. panmorium. Common Name: Fennel. Common fennel, Garden fennel, Wild fennel Local Name: Saunf (सौंफ) Sans. Madhurika Meethi- saunf is an evergreen perennial herb of Western Himalaya, considered as an useful aromatic plant which is used to flavor various food items. Plant is considered as an escape plant, because…

Achyranthes aspera L- Puthkanda, Aung, Lalatjeera, Latjeera.

Family: AmaranthaceaeSynonyms: Achyranthes acuminate, Achyranthes asperoides ,Achyranthes australis , Achyranthes canescens, Achyranthes daito-insularis, Achyranthes ellipticifolia,Achyranthes fruticose,Achyranthes grandifolia, Achyranthes obovate, Achyranthes obovatifolia, Achyranthes okinawensis, Achyranthes robusta, Achyranthes sicula, Achyranthes tenuifolia.Cadelaria punctate,.Centrostachys aspera, Centrostachys australis, Centrostachys canescens, Centrostachys grandifolia, Centrostachys indica, Stachyarpagophora aspersa.Common Name: Devil’s Horsewhip Local Name:  Puthkanda (पुठ्कानडा) Puthkanda is an annual to perennial plant…

Oxalis latifolia Kunth – Trikhada (त्रिखड़ा),

Family:  Oxalidaceae Synonyms: Oxalis dehradunensis, Ionoxalis intermedia Common Name: Broadleaf woodsorrel   Local Name: Trikhada (त्रिखड़ा), Kunth. Trikhada is a perennial, acaulescent herb commonly seen growing upto an altitude of 750- 1000 m in Western Himalaya. It can grow anywhere in moist but well drained habitat and is very frequent in gardens, orchards roadsides, fencerows, wastelands…

Physalis minima L.- Phophla patkayai (फोफला पटखायी)

Family: SolanaceaeSynonyms: Physalis angulata villosa. Physalis micrantha,Physalis parviflora.Common Name: SunberryLocal Name: Phophla patkayai (फोफला पटखायी) Phophla patkayai is an annual herbaceous plant having a very delicate stem and leaves.  It is frequently seen growing along riverbanks, roadsides, houses, in wastelands and in or around the crop fields as a weed up to  an altitude of…

Capsella bursa-pastoris (L.) Medik.- Shershni (शेर्शनी), Karnsphota

Family:  Brassicaceae Synonyms: Bursa djurdjurae, Bursa occidentalis, Capsella rubella, Thlaspi bursa-pastoris. Common Name: Shepherd’s PurseLocal Name:  Shershni (शेर्शनी), Karnsphota. Shershni is commonly seen growing along roadsides, waysides, in wastelands and meadows, arable land, gardens, waste places etc. It is a very common weed of cultivated soil and found up to an altitude of 700-4000 m…

Flacourtia sapida Roxb- Kangu (कांगू)

Family: Salicaceae Synonyms: Flacourtia afra, Flacourtia ramontchii, Flacourtia indica, Flacourtia sepiaria, Gmelina indica,Common Name: Governor’s PlumLocal Name:  Kangu (कांगू) Kangu is a thorny, small tree or shrub of Western Himalayas growing wild in thorny forests, woodland, bushland, thickets and wooded grassland on hill slopes, roadside or wayside up to an altitude of 1,400 meters. It…

Elaeagnus umbellata Thunb.- Ghayain (घयाईं)

Family: ElaeagnaceaeSynonyms: Elaeagnus convexolepidota, Elaeagnus coreana, Elaeagnus crispa, Elaeagnus crocea, Elaeagnus fragrans, Elaeagnus ghuwacen, Elaeagnus higoensis, Elaeagnus longipes crispa, Elaeagnus obovata, Elaeagnus padifolia, Elaeagnus parvifolia, Elaeagnus praematura, Elaeagnus salicifolia, Elaeagnus thunbergii coreana, Elaeagnus thunbergii oblongifolia.Common Name: Autumn OliveLocal Name:  Ghayain (घयाईं) Ghayain is a thorny shrubs or small tree growing wild, in the forests of…

Coix lacryma-jobi L – Surnoo (सुरनू)

Family: PoaceaeSynonyms:  agrestis, Coix arundinacea, Coix chinensis, Coix exaltata, Coix gigantea, Coix lacryma, Coix ma-yuen, Coix ouwehandii, Coix ovata, Coix palustris, Coix pendula,Coix puellarum, Coix pumila, Coix stenocarpa, Coix stigmatosa, Coix tubulosa, Lithagrostis lacryma-jobi,.Sphaerium lacryma, Sphaerium tubulosumCommon Name: Job’s TearsLocal Name: Surnoo (सुरनू) Surnoo is an annual to perennial erect herb of Western Himalaya that…

Macrolepiota procera (Scop.) Singer – Badi chhattri (बड़ी छतरी)

Family: Agaricaceae Synonyms: Agaricus procerus, Lepiota procera, Amanita procera, Mastocephalus procerus, Leucocoprinus procerus, Lepiotophyllum procerum Common Name:  Parasol mushroom Local Name:Badi chhattri (बड़ी छतरी) Badi chhattri plant often grows abundant in the early monsoon period and is one of the well-known edible mushrooms of Western Himalaya. It is seen growing in small clusters or individually,…

Fragaria vesca L- Jangli Strawberry (जंगली स्ट्रॉबेरी), Bhoomphal (भूमफल)

Family: RosaceaeSynonyms: Potentilla nubicola.Fragaria vesca nubicola;Common Names: Indian Strawberry, Wild strawberryLocal Name: Bhoomphal (भूमफल ). Jangli Strawberry (जंगली स्ट्रॉबेरी), Bhoomphal is a perennial herb which grows from a central rootstock and produce a rosette of leaves above. Plant is commonly seen growing in grassland, scrub and moist slopes of mountain region from 1000- 3500 m…

Origanum vulgare L. – Bantulsi (बन तुलसी)

Family LamiaceaeSynonyms: Origanum floridum,Thymus origanum Common Names:  Wild Marjoran, Oregano Local Name: Bantulsi (बन तुलसी) Bantulsi is an erect, perennial herbs of Western Himalayas. It is very commonly seen growing in open forest lands, dry grassy area, scrub and waysides upto an altitude of 1000-3000 m. Plant grows easily in average, dry to medium moisture,…

Rubus niveus Thunb. – Kali – Akhe (काली आखे), Klache

Family: Rosaceae Synonyms: Rubus albescens,Rubus boudieri,Rubus distans, Rubus foliolosus, Rubus godongensis, Rubus incanus, Rubus lasiocarpus, Rubus micranthus, Rubus mysorensis, Rubus pinnatus, Common Name: Ceylon Raspberry Local Name: Kali – Akhe (काली आखे), Klache Kali – Akhe is a deciduous prickly, large shrub found in temperate region of Western Himalayas. It is frequently seen growing along…

Pyrus pashia Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don – Kainth (कैन्थ), shegal

Family:  Rosaceae Synonyms: Malus pashia, Sorbus variolosa, Pyrus crenata ,Pyrus kumaoni ,Pyrus nepalensis ,Pyrus variolosa , Common Name: Indian Wild Pear Local Name:  Kainth (कैन्थ), shegal Kainth is a small deciduous tree commonly seen growing along roadsides, streams, in scrub forests and wastelands, up to an altitude of 2000 m in Western Himalaya. It succeeds…

Viola pilosa Blume- Banfsa (बनफसा)

Family: ViolaceaeSynonymous:Viola celebica,Viola pogonantha,Viola serpens.Common Name: Smooth-Leaf White VioletLocal Name: Banfsa (बनफसा)  Banfsa is a well-known herbaceous perennial plant of Western Himalayas. It is commonly seen growing along pathways, hill slopes, edges of field, grasslands and alpine woods between an altitude of 900 to 3000 m. in shady moist habitat.Banfsa succeed best in well drained…

Phoenix sylvestris (L.) Roxb.- Khajara (खजरा), Khajoor

Family: Arecaceae Synonyms: Elate sylvestris, Elate versicolor Common Name: Wild Date Plum Local Name: Khajara (खजरा), Khajoor. Khajara is a unbranched fast-growing, evergreen palm of Western Himalaya. It is frequently seen growing along river banks, roadsides, pathways, in open forest, grassland and on stretches of low ground. Khajara succeeds best in well drained sunny habitat…

Angelica glauca Edgew.- Chora (चोरा)

Family: ApiaceaeSynonyms: Angelica nuristanicaCommon name: Smooth AngelicaLocal name: Chora (चोरा), Dhantra, Chorak, Choru, Smooth. Chora is an aromatic, perennial herb found growing in temperate region of Western Himalaya. Occasionally it is  seen growing amongst scrub in humus-rich soils on shady moist slopes between an altitudinal zone of 2500 to 3000m. Roots and seeds of chora…

Rubus ellipticus Smith- Akhe (आखे)

Family: Rosaceae Synonyms: Rubus flavus, Rubus gowreephul, Rubus obcordatus, Rubus hirtus, Rubus paniculatus, Rubus rotundifolius, Rubus wallichianu Common Name: Golden Evergreen Raspberry Local Name: Akhe (आखे) Akhe is an evergreen prickly shrub, producing a cluster of stout, heavily armed, biennial stems from a woody root stock. It grows upto 2 m tall and is with…

Berberis aristata DC.- Kashmale (कशमले)

Family: BerberidaceaeSynonymous: Berberis bussmul, Berberis ceratophylla, Berberis chitria, Berberis coccinea, Berberis coerulescens, Berberis elegans, Berberis gracilis, Berberis gracillima, Berberis serratifolia,Common Name: Indian Barberry, Tree Turmeric, ChitraLocal Name:  Kashmale (कशमले) Kashmale is a spiny shrub commonly seen growing in open forests, hillsides, roadsides, pathways and shrubberies at elevation from 1800-2800 m in Western Himalayas. It can…

Indigofera cassioides DC.- Kathi (काथी)

Family: Fabaceae Synonyms: Indigofera arborea, Indigofera pulchella, Indigofera elliptica, Indigofera violacea , Indigofera byansghatensis Indigofera leptostachya, Indigofera gibsonii. Common Name: Cassia Indigo Local Name: Kathi (काथी) Kathi is an erect hairy or glabrous shrub of Western Himalaya bearing bright pink flowers from spring season to early summer. It is commonly seen growing on open slopes,…

Salvia moorcroftiana Wall. ex Benth.- Shobri (शोबरी ), Thuth, kalijari, Halu, Papra

Family:   Lamiaceae  Common Name:   Kashmir SalviaLocal Name: Shobri (शोबरी), Thuth, kalijari, Halu, Papra Shobri is fairly common in Himalayas and chiefly found in the temperate part of Western Himalayas from Kashmir to Kumon. It is usually seen growing in open slopes along roadsides and wasteland up to 1000-2600m. Plant grows best in a sunny very…

Phanera vahlii (Wight & Arn.) Benth- Taur (टौर)

Family: Fabaceae Synonyms: Bauhinia racemosa, Bauhinia vahlii.Common Name: Maloo Creeper, bauhinia climber, camel’s foot climberLocal Name: Taur (टौर) Taur is a vigorous, gigantic, evergreen climbing shrub able to grow into the tops of the trees in the forest with the help of tendrils. It is usually seen growing in sunny habitat of open slopes, hills,…

Carissa spinarum L.- Garnae (गरने), Kharanu, Khirni.

Family: ApocynaceaeSynonyms: Antura edulis,Jasminonerium ovatum, Carissa obovate, Carissa pilosa, Carissa opaca, Carissa ovata, Carissa hirsute, Carissa macrophylla.Carissa diffusaCommon Name:   Wild KarandaLocal Name: Garnae (गरने), Kharanu. Khirni Garnae is a perennial spiny, evergreen shrub or small tree found in dry deciduous forest. It is frequently seen growing in thickets, roadsides, pathways, disturbed areas, open slopes and…

Tagetes minuta.L- Jangali- genda (जंगली गेंदा). Ujadae

Family:  Asteraceae Synonyms: Tagetes glandulifera, Tagetes glandulosa Common Name: Wild marigold, Muster-John-Henry Local Name: Jangali- genda (जंगली गेंदा). Ujadae Jangali- genda is an erect strongly aromatic, annual herb growing wild up to an altitude of 3000 m in Western Himalayas.  It is very common in moist and dry slopes along roadsides, in wastelands, gardens, orchards…

Digera muricata (L.) Mart.- Latmahuria (लतमहूरीया)

Family: Amaranthaceae Synonyms: Digera arvensis, Digera alternifolia, Desmochaeta alternifolia, Achyranthes muricate, Achyranthes alternifolia Common name: False amaranth Local Name: Latmahuria (लतमहूरीया) Latmahuria is an annual herb, growing to 20-70 cm tall as a common weed. It can be seen growing wild in moist places, waste areas, disturbed sites and as a weed in fields up…

Momordica balamina L.- Van Krela (वन करेला), Glakdi.

Family: CucurbitaceaeSynonyms: Momordica involucrate, Momordica schinzii Common Name: Balsam Pear, Balsam Apple, African cucumber, Southern balsam pear.Local Name: Van Krela (वन करेला), Glakdi. Van Krela is a wild growing tendril-bearing annual vine of Western Himalayas arising from a tuberous perennial rootstock. It is seen growing in sunny and semi-shaded locations with rich organic matter in grassland, savannah,…

Myrica esculenta Buch.-Ham. ex D. Don- Kaphal (काफल)

Family:   Myricaceae Synonymous: Myrica farquhariana, Morella esculenta. Myrica integrifolia, Myrica nagi, Myrica sapida. Common Name: Bayberry Local Name:  Kaphal (काफल) Kaphal is a medium to large sized woody evergreen tree, frequently seen growing in pine forests of Western Himalayas. It is found wild in open or mixed forests, on mountain slopes and roadsides  at elevations…

Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. – Baer (बेर) Brari.

Family: RhamnaceaeSynonyms: Paliurus mairei, Rhamnus jujube, Rhamnus mauritiana, Ziziphus jujube, Ziziphus jujube, Ziziphus rotundata, Ziziphus tomentosa Common Name: Indian JujubeLocal Name: Baer (बेर), Brari. Baer is a fast growing, spiny shrub or tree with a spreading crown. It is commonly found growing in slopes along roadsides, pathways, forests, thickets, riverbanks, and edges of hills up…

Cannabis sativa L.- Bhang (भांग ), Begya

Family: CannabaceaeSynonyms: Cannabis indica, Cannabis ruderalis।Common Name: Hemp, Indian HempLocal Name: Bhang (भांग), Begya Bhang is an erect, branched and aromatic annual to perennial herbs of Western Himalaya.  It is frequently seen growing in wastelands, roadsides, pathways and nearby habitations up to an altitude of 3000 m . Bhang prefers a rich loamy soil with…

Asparagus filicinus Buch.-Ham. ex D.Don- Sansarbuti (संसरबूटी)

Family:  AsparagaceaeSynonyms: Asparagus qinghaiensis, Protasparagus filicinus.Common Name: Fern AsparagusLocal Name: Sansarbuti (संसरबूटी) Sansarbuti is a perennial herb of Western Himalaya. It is commonly seen growing in forests, thickets, roadsides, pathways and hill slopes, in  shady and moist places from 2200 m to 3000 m elevation in Western Himalyas. Young shoot, green cladodes and roots of…

Avena fatua L.- Bhulhare (भुलहारे)

Family: Poaceae Synonyms: Avena occidentalis, Avena ambigua, Avena japonica, Avena intermedia, Avena nigra, Avena Pilosa Common Name: Wild Oats Local Name: Bhulhare(भुलहारे) Bhulhare is an annual widespread weed of Western Himalaya. It is commonly seen growing in cultivated land and other waste places upto an altitude of 2000 m and usually prefers a fertile well…

Indigofera heterantha Wall. ex Brandis. – Kalli kathi (काली काथी ), Kathura

Family: FabaceaeSynonyms: Indigofera gerardiana, Indigofera himalayensis retusa, Indigofera macrostachya,Indigofera rubroviolacea.Common Name: Indigo Bush, Himalayan indigoLocal Name: Kalli kathi (काली काथी ), Kathura Kalli kathi is a deciduous bushy shrub found growing from 1000 to 2800 m elevation in Western Himalaya. It is leafless from November to March and in flowering from August to October. It…

Aegle marmelos L. Bill Patri (बिल पत्री), Bel, Sans Bilva, Bael

Family: RutaceaeSynonyms: Crataeva marmelos, Feronia pellucida Common Name: Bael TreeLocal Name: Bill Patri (बिल पत्री), Bel, Sans Bilva, Bill Patri is a slow-growing deciduous or evergreen , shrub or small tree of Western Himalaya, well known for its sacred leaves. It is seen growing in well drained habitat of dry deciduous forests on hills and…

Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb. – Baheda (बहेड़ा)

Fanily: CombretaceaeSynonyms: Myrobalanus bellirica,Myrobalanus laurinioides, Terminalia attenuate,Terminalia moluccana,Terminalia punctata Common Name: Myrobalan Local Name: Baheda (बहेड़ा)             Baheda is a large, deciduous, fast-growing, multipurpose tree, well known for its edible fruits. It succeeds best in well-drained soil with a sunny habitat. Plant occasionally found near villages and can be seen scattered in forests, mountains sunny…

Sida rhombifolia L.- Dridh (दरीढ़)

Family:  MalvaceaeSynonyms: Malva rhombifolia, Sida alba, Sida compressa,Sida insularis Common Name: Broom JuteLocal Name: Dridh (दरीढ़) Dridh is a perennial herb or undershrub. It is with many-branched stem which are more or less herbaceous or woody,. Stem can be erect or prostrate. Plant is very frequent in wastelands, disturbed forests, fallow field, orchards and gardens…

Terminalia chebula Retz.- Harad (हरड़), Haradi, Sans Haritki.

Family:  Combretaceae Synonyms: Terminalia parviflora,Terminalia tomentella,Terminalia zeylanica Common Name: Black Myrobalan Local Name: Harad (हरड़), Haradi, Sans Haritki Harad is medium to large sized deciduous tree of Western Himalaya, which is very well known for its edible fruits. Tree is frequently seen growing in mixed deciduous forest, along roadsides, pathways and near villages, up to…

Bergenia ciliata (Haw.) Sternb.- Middu patta (मिड्डू पत्ता), Siddu Patta, Sabhli kpach.

Family: Saxifragaceae Synonyms: Bergenia ligulata cliata, Bergenia thysanodes, Saxifraga ciliata, Saxifraga thysanodes.Common Name: Frilly bergenia, Hairy bergenia, Winter begoniaLocal Name: Middu patta (मिड्डू पत्ता), Sabhli kpach.Siddu patta,    Middu patta is a perennial herb of shady moist areas of temperate region . It is commonly seen growing on moist rocky and other shady moist places…

Rosa brunonii Lindl.- Kujja (कुज्जा)

Family: RosaceaeSynonyms: Rosa moschata, Rosa recurve, Rosa lindleyi, Rosa, pubescens Rosa gladulifera.Common Name: Musk Rose, Kunja, Himalayan musk roseLocal Name: Kujja(कुज्जा)              Kujja is a large deciduous perennial shrub of Western Himalaya. It is frequently seen growing in well drained sunny habitats and slopes in forest, wastelands, roadsides, marginal land, shrubberies and slopes of hills…

Arisaema propinquum Schott- Bashar (बशार)

Family:  Araceae Synonyms: Arisaema wallichianum, Arisaema plukenetii Common Name: Green-Dragon. Wallach’s cobra lily  Local Name: Bashar (बशार) Bashar is a perennial herbaceous wild food plant of hills in Western Himalayas.It is commonly seen growing in moist shady places in forests, roadside along with sides of streams, nallaha and other water channel up to an altitude…

Mentha longifolia (L.)Huds.- Jangli- Pudina (जंगली पुदीना). Pahari Pudina.

Family: Lamiaceae or LabiataeSynonyms: M.spicata, M.sylvestris  M. royleana.Common Name: Lamb mint. HorsemintLocal Name: Jangli Pudina (जंगली पुदीना). Pahari Pudina. Jangli- Pudina is a fast-growing, perennial herb, commonly seen growing along water bodies, nallahs, stream, around irrigation channels and waste wet places up to an altitude of 1200-3000 m in Western Himalaya. It can also grow…

Rosa macrophylla Lindl.- Jangali gulab (जंगली गुलाब), Ban Gulab.

Family: RosaceaeSynonyms: Rosa setipoda, Rosa. alpina macrophylla, Common Name: Wild Rose, Himalayan Rose, Big Hip Rose.Local Name: Jangali gulab (जंगली गुलाव), Ban Gulab, Gulabri. Jangali gulab is a perennial, deciduous shrub of elegant growth and foliage.  It is frequently seen as forest undergrowth in humus-rich soils. Plant is found in and around forests and shrubberies…

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels- Jaamun (जामुन), Jamni, Jambu.

Family: MyrtaceaeSynonyms: Syzygium jambolanum, Eugenia cumini,Eugenia jambolana,Jambolifera sinensis. Myrtus cumini.Common Name: Indian Blackberry, Jambolan, Jaman, Java Plum, Black Plum.Local Name: Jaamun (जामुन), Jamni, Jambu. Jaamun is an evergreen, fast-growing, medium to large sized tree of Western Himalayas. It  is highly valued for its edible fruits. Jaamun is commonly seen growing   around borders of agricultural fields,…

Punica grantatum L.- Daadu (दाडू), Anardana, Anar Dadim, Dadima.

Family:   LythraceaeSynonym: Punica grandiflora.Punica nana, Punica spinosa,Rhoea punica, Punica florida.Common Name: Pomegranate Local Name: Daadu(दाडू),Anardana, Dadim, Dadima, Daadu is a deciduous spiny, shrub or small tree of Western Himalayas. It is a deep-rooted and slow-growing plant having an open canopy and branched crown. Daadu is commonly seen growing around stony slopes, hills, roadsides, edges of…

Dendrocalamus strictus (Roxb.) Nees- Bans (बांस)

Family: PoaceaeSynonyms: Arundo hexandra, Bambos stricta, Bambusa glomerate, Bambusa stricta. Common Name: Male bamboo, Solid bamboo, Calcutta bamboo. Hard bamboo, Iron bamboo, Stone bamboo.Local Name: Bans (बांस) Bans is a tall, perennial, clump-forming, evergreen plant of Western Himalayas. It is native to India. Bans is commonly seen growing near habitations, in hill slopes, ravines, alluvial plains and…

Aesculus indica (Colebr. ex Cambess.) Hook.- Khanot (खनोट), khanor

Family: Sapindaceae Synonyms: Pavia indica, Pawia indica. Common name: Indian Horse Chestnut Local aame :   Khanot (खनोट), khanor     Khanot is a tall, deciduous tree found from moderate to high altitude in the Western Himalayas. Its tree is with a straight trunk and profuse branches usually in whorls. It is commonly seen growing  in wet temperate forests,…

Juglans regia L.- Khod, (खोड), Akhrot

Family:  JuglandaceaeSynonyms: Juglans arguta, Regia maxima, Pterocarya japonica, Juglans sinensis, Juglans intermedia.Common name:WalnutLocal name: Khod (खोड), Akhrot Khod is a large deciduous tree found in forests of the Western Himalayas. It is generally seen growing in subtropical thorn to moist forests and in moist ravines up to an altitude of 1000 to 3000 meters. Khod…

Coccinia grandis (L.) Voigt – Kandiari (कंदीयारी) Shiblingi (शिबलिंगी), Sanakdi.

Family: Cucurbitaceae Synonyms: Bryonia glabra, Bryonia grandis. Bryonia palmata, Bryonia acerifolia, Cucurbita dioica, Momordica bicolor, Momordica bicolor  Common name: Ivy gourd, Tindora, Scarlet gourd Local Name: Kandiari (कंदीयारी), Shiblingi (शिबलिंगी), Sanakdi Kandiari is a perennial deciduous bush or vine growing from a tuberous root stock. It is found in Savannah, evergreen dry forest to moist…

Phyllanthus emblica L. – Ambla (आम्बला)

Family: PhyllanthaceaeSynonym: Cicca emblica, Diasperus emblica, Emblica officinalis, Phyllanthus taxifolius, Emblica arborea, Phyllanthus mimosifolius Common Name: Indian GooseberryLocal Name: Ambla (अम्बला) Ambla is a popular, slow-growing, small or large deciduous tree of Western Himalayas known for its edible fruits. It is commonly seen growing wild in slopes of hills, roadsides, borders of agriculture land and along…

Cinnamomum tamala (Buch -Ham.) Nees & Eberm.- Meetha patta (मीठा पत्ता), Tej patta.

Family: LauraceaeSynonym: Cinnamomum albiflorum, Cinnamomum veitchii, Cinnamomum reinwardtii, Cinnamomum  Common Name: Indian Cassia Local Name: Meetha patta (मीठा पत्ता), Tej patta Meetha patta is a small, evergreen trees or large shrubs of Western Himalayas. It is seen growing in full sun or partial shady habitat on hills, roadside, mountain slopes and other well drained places. Plant generally prefers…

Aloe barbadensi (L.) Burm.f.- Gawarpatha (गवारपथा), Daware.

Family: Asphodelaceae Synonym:  Aloe vulgaris, Barbados aloe, Curaçao aloe. Common Name: Aloe Vera Local Name: Gawarpath (गवारपथा), Daware. Aloe Vera               Gawarpatha is bitter, nearly acaulescent, succulent, evergreen perennial herb, producing dense rosettes of long pointed leaves from a branched creeping rhizome. It occupies a wide range of habitat varying from forest to exposed rocky…

Arisaema jacquemontii Blume – Chichyda (चिचडा)

Family: AraceaeSynonyms: Arisaema cornutum, Arisaema exileCommon Name: Cobra lilyLocal name: Chichyda (चिचिडा) Chichyda is a perennial herb of Western Himalayas. It is commonly seen growing in open grassy places, rocky slopes as well as margins of coniferous forests , Juniperus or Rhododendron thickets, shrubberies and alpine zones of drier parts of Western Himalayas up to…

Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng.- Gandhelu (गंधेलू) Mitha neem, Gandhla, Gandhela.

Family: Rutaceae Synonymy: Bergera koenigii Common Name: Curry Leaf Local name: Gandhelu (गंधेलू), Mitha neem, Gandhla, Gandhela Gandhelu is a small evergreen shrub or tree with pungent foliage. Gandhelu is very easily growing plant commonly seen growing up to an altitude of 1500 m above the sea level. It grows best in full sun but also succeed…

Arisaema tortuosum – (Wall.) Schott.- Kedae ki chhali (कीड़े की छली).Ban chhali

Family:  Araceae (Arum Family) Synonym: Arisaema curvatum, Arum tortuosum Common Name: Cobra flower Local Name: Kadae ki chhali (कीड़े की छली), Ban chhali Kedae ki chhali is a perennial herb found growing in a wide range of climatic zones ranging from the warm foothills right up to cold, winter frost areas. It is commonly seen…

Solanum virginianum L.- Chhoti Kateri (छोटी कटेरी), Choti- kanadyai

Family: Solanaceae Synonym(s): Solanum surattense Solanum.armatum  Solanum.xanthocarpumCommon name(s): kantakari, Surrattense nightshadeLocal name: Chhoti Kateri (छोटी  कटेरी),, Choti- kanadyai Chhoti kateri is an erect or creeping herbaceous perennial plant, occasionally found in waste places, roadsides, degraded forest, open space, wet places, moist soil, damp area and in   watersheds, up to an altitude of 1000 meter in…

Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schott- Jangli kachalu (जंगली कचालू ) Ubad Kachalu.

Family: AraceaSynonym: Colocasia antiquorumCommon name: Taro Local name: Jangli kachalu (जंगली कचालू) Ubad Kachalu. Jangli kachalu is an evergreen, perennial plant, usually grows in wet fields, near the banks of ponds, streams and rivers in wild habitat. It is a very important, staple food crop in many parts of the world including Himalayas, so widely…

Portulaca oleracea L- Kulpha (कुलफा)

Family:  Portulacaceae Synonym: Portulaca consanguinea Common name(s): Common purslane, verdolaga, red root, or parsley Local name: Kulpha (कुलफा) Kulpha is a annual succulent potherb of waste ground, garden, roadside, cultivated fields and wall margins It is grown as a common weed and found upto an altitude of 1700 in Western Himalaya. Kulpha grows well in sunny moist…

Prunus persica (L.)Batsch. – Aaru, (आरू), Aadu,Phuniyee aaru

Family: RosaceaeSynonym: Persica vulgaris,Amygdalus persica.Common name: Peach, Flowering Peach, Ornamental Peach, Common PeachLocal Name:  Aaru, (आरू), Aadu, Phuniyee aaru. Aaru is deciduous fast-growing tree of Western Himalayas found upto an altitude of 2500 m.  It is seen growing in woodland, sunny edges of hills and dappled shady areas, Aaru is also cultivated in large scale for its…

Prunus mira Koehne – Chulli (चुल्ली)

Family: Rosaceae Synonyms: Amygdalus mira. Persica mira.Common Name: Smoothpit Peach. smooth stone peach, smooth-pit peach, Tibetan peach, Local Name: Chulli (चुल्ली), Behmi, Behimi or Tirul Chulli is commonly seen growing at slopes in mixed forests, mountain valleys. open hillsides, ravines, woodland, garden sunny, edge and in dappled shady places in hills of Western Himalayas.. It is usually found growing wild…

Amaranthus tricolor L.- Chaulai (चौलाई)

Family:  Amaranthaceae Synonyms: Amaranthus gangeticus, Amarannthus tristis, Amaranthus mangostanus Common Name:  Chinese Spinach, Joseph’s-coat Fountain Plant, Tampala , Summer Poinsettia Local Name: Chaulai (चौलाई) , Ghiuoo Chaulai Chaulai is an annual potherb, usually seen growing as a weed in arable land, roadside, garden and in cultivated field. Chaulai is found upto an altitude of 2000 m…

Bidens tripartite L- Nikampusi (निकम्पुसी)

Family: AsteraceaeSynonyms: Bidens repens, Bidens acuta. Bidens orientalis, Bidens pumilaCommon Name: Three-lobe beggartick, Three-part beggarticks, leafy-bracted beggar ticks or trifid bur-marigoldLocal Name: Nikampusi (निकम्पुसी) Nikampusi is an erect, much-branched annual weed of cultivated land, usually found growing up to an altitude of 1800 m in Western Himalayas. It can grow easily in moderately fertile, damp to wet soil…

Pyrus pyrifolia (Burm.f.) Nakai- Nashpati (नाशपती)

Family: Rosaceae Synonym: Ficus pyrifolia, Pyrus arakiana ,Pyrus asakeensis,Pyrus autumnalis,, Pyrus babauttiagi, Pyrus higoensis, Pyrus incubacea, Pyrus kiushiana,Pyrus kleinhofiana,  Pyrus lakuhokuensis,  Pyrus lasiogyna,  Pyrus lindleyi, Pyrus nehiyamadonis,  Pyrus pseudocalleryana, Pyrus pseudouipongensis, Pyrus pyrifolia var. talyschensis, Pyrus saidaeana,  Pyrus serotina, Pyrus sinensis,  Pyrus sohayakiensis, Pyrus tajimaensis,Pyrus tambana,  Pyrus tobisimensis,  Pyrus togashiana, Pyrus tsuchiyana,Pyrus tungusiana,  Pyrus uipongensis, Pyrus umemurana,.Pyrus uyematsuana,Pyrus yohrohensis. Common name: Asian pear, Japanese pear, Chinese pear, Korean…

Bidens pilosa L- Goomaru (गूमरु), Badi gambari.

Family: Asteraceae (Sunflower family)Synonyms: Bidens orientalis, Bidens minor, Bidens leucantha   Bidens leucanthemusCommon name:   black-jack, beggar-ticks, cobbler’s pegs, sticky beaks,farmer’s friendsand Spanish needle                   Local Name: Goomaru (गूमरु), Badi gambari. Goomaru is a easy to grow cosmopolitan annual or perennial herb of Western Himalayas.  It is commonly seen growing upto an altitude of 2500 meter. Plant is an aggressive weed. that…

Russula delica Fr.-Matcho (मटेचो)

Family: Russulaceae Synonym: Agaricus exsuccus, Agaricus vellereus. Agaricus piperatus  Common Name: Milk-white brittlegill. Milk-white Russula. Local Name: Matcho(मटेचो) Matcho is amycorrhizal fungus, growing solitary, scattered and sometimes gregariously on terrestrial habitat in coniferous forest. It is one of the largest mushrooms in the genus Russula. It is mostly seen growing at high altitude and matcho…

Solanum nigrum L.- Patkayai (पटकाई),Ghayanii

Family: Solanaceae Common Name: Black Nightshade, Common Nightshade, Poisonberry. Synonym: Solanum dilleniid, Solanum vulgare, Solanum decipiens. Local Name: Patkayai (पटकाई), Kakmachi, Makoi, Ghayanii. Patkayai commonly seen growing as a weed along edges of cultivated areas, roadside, garden and in waste lands all across Western Himalayas.  It succeeds well in most soils but is also tolerant…

Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers – Gulje (गुलजे)

Family: Menispermaceae  Synonyms: Tinospora verrucose, Cocculus cordifolius, Menispermum cordifolium Common Name(s): Amrita, Duyutige, Gado, Gal o, Giloe, Giloya, Guduchi, Gulancha, Heartleaf moonseed, Teppatige, Tinofend Guduchi, Giloy Local Name: Gulje (गुलजे) Gulje is a large, deciduous, perennial climbing shrub of western Himalaya with a  weak and fleshy stem. It twins as a vine around other plants like hedges…

Galinsoga parviflora Cav.- Peepali (पीपली), Padini-gha.

Family:  AsteraceaeSynonyms: Galinsoga hirsute, Galinsoga laciniate, Adventina parviflora Common Name: Gallant SoldierLocal name(s); Peepali (पीपली). Padini-gha. Peepali is a slender, annual herb commonly seen growing in wastelands, cultivated land, waste places, disturbed soils, orchards, gardens, lawns, and roadsides, up to an altitude of 2000 m in Western Himalayas. It grows best in most soils and…

Commelina communis L- Chura (छुरा)

Family: Commelinaceae Synonym: Commelina paludosa, Commelina polygama. Commelina vulgaris, Commelina coreana.      Common Name: Day Flower, Asiatic dayflower, Local Name: Chura (छुरा)                 Chura is an erect or decumbent herb, may be annual or perennial depending upon habitat where it grows. Plant is annual if dry spell extends for long duration and is perennial when the…

Amaranthus spinosus L. – Kanta Chaulayee (कांटा चौलाई), Badi chareli

Family:  AmaranthaceaeSynonyms:  Acistoma coccineum, Grislea punctate, Amaranthus caracasanus,Amaranthus diacanthus,Galliaria spinosa,Galliaria spitosa.Common Name:  Spiny Amaranth, Spiny Pigweed, Prickly Amaranth or Thorny Amaranth,Local Name: Kanta Chulayee (कांटा चौलाई), Badi chareli Kanta chulayee is an erect, profusely branched annual herb of Western Himalayas. People harvest it from wild habitat for their local use as a source of food, forage and…

Euphorbia heterophylla L- Khabad dudhia (खाबड़ दूधिया)

Family; Euphorbiaceae   Common name; Wild poinsettia Synonym: Euphorbia geniculate, Poinsettia heterophylla Local name: Khabad dudhia ( खाबड़ दूधिया ) Khabad dudhia is a sparsely-branched, annual weed with copius latex. Plant is found upto an altitude of  1000 meter. Sometimes plant is also grown as an ornamental plant in different parts of Western Himalaya. All…

Celosia argentea L- Choti phool (चोटी फूल).

Family: Amaranthaceae Synonyms: Celosia japonica, Celosia stricta, Celosia plumose. Common Name: Silver Cockscomb, White Cockscomb, Flamingo Feathers, Wheat Celosia. Local Name: Choti phool (चोटी फूल), Bithu. Choti phool is a annual herb. It is seen growing growing in arable lands, as a weed of cultivation, in harvested fields and wastelands up to an altitude of 1600 m…

Silene conoidea L.- Takli (तकली), Dhudu Chana, Jangli Chana.

Family: CaryophyllaceaeSynonyms:  Conosilene conica, Cucubalus conoideus, Conosilene  conoldea Common name:  Bladder Campion, Maidens tears. weed silene, large sand catchflyLocal Name: Takli (तकली), Dhudu Chana, Jangli Chana. Takli is annual herbaceous plant of Western Himalaya known for its attractive pink flowers. Itis commonly seen growing along roadside, grassy slopes and cultivated land. It is found upto…

Rumex nepalensis Spreng.- Jalbhangru (जलभांगरु), Malora, Ubad Palak.Gandamora

Family: – Polygonaceae Synonym: – Rumex hamatus, Rumex ramulosus, Rumex tuberosus, Rumex esquirolii. Common name: Nepal Dock. Local Name: Jalbhangru (जलभांगरु), Malora, Ubad Palak, Gandaora Jalbhangru is a perennial herb producing erect, branched stems from a large root stock. Jalbhangru commonly occur in grassland, bushland, rain-forest, forest edges, riverside, nallahs, water channel, damp places and swamps up…

Moringa oleifera Lam.-Soonani (सूननी)

Family:  MoringaceaeSynonyms:  Guilandina moringa. Hyperanthera moringa. Moringa moringa. Moringa pterygospe Common name: Horseradish Tree, Drumstick tree, Moringa. Local name: Soonani (सूननी) Soonani is a fast growing, drought resistant tree in tropical areas of Western Himalayas. It has a open crown of drooping branches and tripinnate leaves. Soonani grows wild in Western Himalayas and cultivated throughout…

Centella asiatica (L.) Urb.- Brahmi (ब्राह्मी), Katorni, Ghodsumbi, Surpmukhi.

Family:  Apiaceae Synonym: Centella coriacea, Hydrocotyle asiatica. Common Name: Gotu Kola, Mandukaparni, Manduk Parani, Mandukig, Marsh Penny ,Indian Pennywort Local Name: Brahmi (ब्राह्मी), Katorni, Ghodsumbi,Surpmukhi. Brahmi is perennial. small, evergreen trailing herb. Although plant is an evergreen perennial, but it can be killed off in extreme cold winters. So, in extreme winters it is necessary…

Ficus racemosa L.- Umre (ऊमरे)

Family:  Moraceae  Synonym: Ficus glomerata, Covellia glomerata.Common name: Cluster fig tree, Indian fig tree or goolar (gular) fig. Local name: Umre ( ऊमरे). Umre plant is an evergreen or deciduous tree.  It is large in size, trunk deeply buttressed and often with an irregular canopy. Umre is commonly seen in open, deciduous forest, moist areas, beside rivers and streams….

Sonchus asper (L.) Hill – Bhursalae (भूरसाले)

Family: Asteraceae/Compositae (Aster) Synonym: Sonchus oleraceus, Sonchus ferox. Common Names: Blue sow-thistle, prickly sow thistle, rough sow thistle, spiny sow thistle, spiny-leaved sow thistle. Local Name: Bhursalae (भूरसाले). Bhursalae is a herbaceous annual or occasionally biennial, disseminated by wind-dispersed seed. It is quite common in cultivated lands and field margins, waste places, grasslands, disturbed and…

Cirsium arvense (L .) Scop.- Chiuli (च्युली)

Family: Asteraceae/Composite Common Names:   Creeping Thistle, Canada thistle. field thistle. Synonyms: Carduus arvensis, Carduus arvensis, Cirsium incanum,  Cirsium setosum,Serratula arvensis.  Local Name:  Chiuli (च्युली). Chiuli is a rhizomatous very fast-growing perennial plant that is in bloom from March to August.  It grows in a variety of habitats like open mesophytic areas, meadows, cultivated beds,…

Zanthoxylum armatum DC. – Tirmire (तिरमीरे), Tomer,Tirmiru

Family: Rutaceae. Synonyms: Zanthoxylun alatum planispinum, Zanthoxylum alatum subtrifoliatum. Common Name: Winged prickly ash. Local Name: Tirmire (तिरमीरे),Tomer,Tirmiru Tirmire plant is a spiny perennial. It is deciduous or evergreen, aromatic, shrub or small tree. Plant grows  well in open slopes, pasture, rock ledges, rain forests, woodland garden, sunny edge and variegated shady habitat, but generally…

Oxalis corniculata L.- Malori (मलोरी), Khhati-Meethi, Khat- malori.

Family: Oxalidaceae Synonym: Oxalis repens Thunb, Oxalis pusilla Salish, Oxalis villosa Bieb, Oxalis foliosa Blatt. Common Name:Creeping woodsorrel,Procumbent yellow sorrel.Sleeping beauty. Local Name: Malori (मलोरी) Khhati-Meethi, Khat- malori. Malori is a very easily grown hairy, annual plant with trailing stem and trifoliate leaves. Plant prefers well-drained moist or dry open habitats. It frequently grows in…

Asparagus adscendens (Roxb.) Kunth -Sansarpali (सनसरपाली),

Family: Asparagaeae Synonyms: Asparagopsis adscendens, Protasparagus adscendens.Common Name: Shatawari,Safed musli. Local Name: Sansarpali (सनसरपाली), Sansarbuti.  Sansarpali is an evergreen perennial shrub, which remain green throughout the year. Plant generally prefers well-drained moist soil and can grow in semi-shade also. Sansarpali is usually found throughout India and naturally occurs in forests of Western Himalaya upto an…

Lathyrus aphaca L.- Sudu(सुडू), Matar- phali

Family: FabaceaeSynonyms: Orobus aphaca. Common name: Yellow vetching, Wild Pea, Yellow flower Pea Local Name: Sudu (सुडू), Matar- phali Sudu is a trailing or scrambling annual herb, which grows best in semi- moist habitat like arable land. waysides, roadsides, hill margins, gardens and slopes. It is mostly found in cultivated field along with Triticum aestivum,…

Vicia hirsuta (L.) Gray—Chhoti Roadi (छोटी रोड़ी), Chhoti Kaer.

Family: Fabaceae Synonyms: Cracca hirsuta, C. minor, Endiusa hirsuta, Ervilia hirsuta, Ervilia vulgaris, Ervum filiforme, Ervum hirsutum, Ervum sardoum, Ervum terronii, Vicia coreana, V. meyeri, V. mitchellii, V. parviflora, V. taquetii, V. terronii, and Vicioides hirsuta  Common Names: Tiny vetch, hairy vetch, hairy tare Local Name: Chhoti Roadi(छोटी रोड़ी), Chhoti Kaer. Chhoti Roadi is an annual, herbaceous trailing or climbing vine with branching stems. Its leaves end in tendrils and remain…

Woodfordia fruticosa (L.) Kurz- Dhave (धावे)

Family:                    LythraceaeSynonyms:             Woodfordia tomentosa (Roxb.) Bedd. Acistoma coccineum Zipp. ex Span. Grislea punctata Buch.-Ham. ex Sm. Common Name:     Fire-Flame bush Local Name:            Dhave (धावे), Dhoth        Dhave is an evergreen shrub growing on open, sunny habitats like landslips, disturbed soils, agricultural land, waste land and degraded place. Plant is very common up to an altitude of 1800 m in…

Euphorbia hirta L- Dudhi(दूधी), Sheiru

Family:           Euphorbiaceae  Synonym:     Euphorbia.pilulifera Common name: Asthma weed, Tawa-Tawa Local name: Dudhi(दूधी), Sheiru Dudhi is a annual hairy herb of Western Himalayas. It is widely growing herb of  mid -hill region and occur in open grasslands, roadsides and pathways of warmer parts of Western Himalayas.  up to an altitudinal range of 900 meter. Dudhi…

Vicia sativa L.- Roadi (रोड़ी), Bada Kaer, Roothi.

family: Fabaceae (Leguminosae) Synonyms: Vicia bacla. Vicia communis. Vicia glabra. Vicia nemoralis Common name: Tare, Garden Vetch, Spring Vetch, Narrw-leaved Vetch Local name: Roadi (रोड़ी), Bada Kaer, Roothi Roadi plant is an annual short-lived herbaceous vine of late winter or early spring season. It is a common weed of crops, wetlands, watercourses, open woodlands, grasslands, roadsides,…

Taraxacum officinale We(L.) Weber ex F.H. Wigg – Laung (लौंग), snowball (स्नौबौल), Dudhali, Ghadi phool

Family: Asteraceae/Compositae (Aster) Synonym:  Leontodon taraxacum L. araxacum dens-leonis Desf. Common Name(s):  Dandelion,lion’s tooth, Pissenlit, Priest’s crown, Puffball. Local Name: Laung (लौंग), snowball (स्नौबौल), Dudhali,  Kaadavi Sunaehari. Sihanparni. Ghadi phool. Laung plant is a perennial scapigerous, milky herb commonly found in temperate regions of Western Himalayas from 300m to 5500m. It can be seen growing along roadsides,…

Urtica dioica L _ Koogas (कूगस, कूगसी, बिच्छू बूटी)

                                               Family Urticaceae Common name: Stinging nettle, common nettle, stinging nettle or nettle leaf, nettle. stinger, Local name: Koogas (कूगस, कूगसी  बिच्छू बूटी) There are three plants called by the same name koogas, koogasi and Bichoo buti in Himachal Pradesh, but identified by three different botanical names viz. Urtica dioica, Urtica parviflora and Girardiana heterophylla of family…

Dioscorea spp. _ Dareghal (दरेघल)

Family:   Dioscoreaceae Local name:    Dareghal (दरेघल) Dareghal is a common plant represented by two different species in distt, Mandi of Himachal Pradesh. Both are   used as a vegetable.  One species is found growing  in mid to high-hills of Western Himalayas.             It appears that there is a large variation in this plant. Therefore, there…

Chenopodiun album L _ Bathu (बाथू).Kadon(कड़ों)

Family: Chenopodiaceae Common name: Lamb’s quarter, white goosefoot, wild spinach Local name: Bathu (बाथू) ,Kadon (कड़ों) Bathu is a fast-growing seasonal weed appearing during summer months.  It is especially common at those places which are rich in organic matter e.g. in the vicinity of cowsheds and around manure pits.  It occurs more frequently in the…

Flemingia procumbens Roxb.-Kujjee(कुज्जी)

Family:FabaceaeSynonyms: Flemingia vestita,  Maughania vestita, M. procumbensCommon Name: Soh-PhlongLocal Name: Kujjee कुज्जी) Kujjee is a herbaceous  annual to perennial plant of Western Himalayas commonly seen growing on mountains slopes between  an altitudinal range of 1700 to 3000m. It grows best in well drained sunny to  partially shady habitat.Being the member of Fabaceae  it has nodules in the roots for establishing   symbiotic relationship with  soil…

Rumex hastatus Moench_ Khat malori (खट मलोरी),Aambi.

Family: Polygonaceae Synonyms:  Rumex dissectus Common Name: Arrowleaf Dock , Heartwing sorrel,Local name: Khat malori (खट मलोरी), Aambi. Khat malori is perennial herb. Plant found growing in  Western Himalayas upto an elevation of 2300 metres above sea level.  It is very hardy plant and can grow even on poorest soils and from the crevices of stone…

Senna occidentalis (L) Link _ Badi yelo (बड़ी येलो)

Family: Fabaceae     Synonyms: Cassia caroliniana, Cassia ciliate, Cassia laevigata, Cassia occidentalis Common name:  Coffee senna, coffee weed. Local name: Badi yelo (बड़ी येलो) Badi yelo is a annual under shrub or a short lived perennial plant of Western Himalayas. It can be seen growing upto an altitude of 1500 metres.  Plant is a weed of roadsides,…

Diplazium esculentum (Retz.) Sw _ Lingad (लिंगड़)

Family: AthyrioideaeSynonym: Anisogonium esculentum, Asplenium ambiguum, Asplenium esculentumAthyrium esculentum, Callipteris ambigua, Callipteris esculenta, Digrammaria esculenta, Diplazium malabaricum, Hemionitis esculenta,Microstegia esculenta, Common name: Vegetable fern, Local name: Lingad (लिंगड़) . Lingad, which is a fern, is one of the most popular wild growing food plants of Himachal Pradesh.  It is eaten in large quantities by Himachalis. …

Phytolacca acinosa Roxb _ Jharka (झरका)

Family: Phytolaccaceae Common name: Himayan pokeberry, Indian pokeberry Local name: Jharka (झरका) In some of the books on Indian plants, Phytolica acinosa, is reported to grow on places having a very wide climatic range, even at an elevation of 500 m.  There seems to be some confusion in identification of this species.  The Phytolica acinosa,…

Nasturtium officinale W.T. Aiton _ Chhooch (छूछ)

Family: Crucifereae Common name: Water cress Local  name: Chhooch (छूछ) Chhoochh grows wild among ditches, pools and margins of shallow streams. It can be seen upto an elevation of 2100 metres in Himalayas. Chhoochh  is prepared as a vegetable.  As chhoochh grows only along water channels or sides of ponds, so it is available only…

Momordica dioica Roxb. ex Willd. _ Jangli Karela (जंगली करेला ), Ban karela (बन करेला).

Family:  Cucurbitaceae Synonym: Momordica hispida Local name: Jangli Karela (जंगली करेला ), Ban karela (बन करेला). The climbing vines of jangli karela can be seen growing wild on hedges and small shrubs all over Himachal Pradesh upto an elevation of 1200 metres.  It scrambles over the ground and also climb over the surrounding vegetation attaching…

Indigofera atropurpurea DC _ Kathi (काथी)

Family: Fabaceae Synonyms: Indigofera cavaleriei.Common Name: Deep-Purple IndigoLocal Name: Kathi (काथी) Shrubs of kathi can be seen growing from 300 to 1900 metres above mean sea level. This plant grows as scrub, mostly on mountains, sparse forests, grasslands near trail sides or streams. The growth of this plant is the best when it is in sunny…

Ficus roxburghii Wall_ Taryambal (तर्याम्बल), Timbal, Tremal, Trembal, Taryambalu.

Family: Moraceae Synonyms: Ficus auriculata, Ficus macrophylla. Common name: Elephant ear fig tree. ocal Names: Taryambal (तर्याम्बल), Timbal, Tremal, Trembal, Taryambalu. Taryambal is a very commonly growing tree in the mid-hills of Himachal upto an elevation of 1700 m.  Its trees can be seen growing wild in forests, village common lands, cultivated fields, grasslands etc. This tree grows…

Ficus palmata Forssk.subsp.virgata(Roxb) _ Fegra (फेगड़ा), khasra (खसरा), daghla (दाघला).

Family: Moraceae Synonyms: F. caricoides F. virgataCommon names: Wild fig, wild Himalayan fig Local names: Fegra (फेगड़ा), khasra (खसरा), daghla (दाघला). Fegra trees are of common occurrence throughout the mid hill region upto an elevation of 1550 metres. Besides Himachal Pradesh, this plant also grows in areas having similar climate in the neighbouring states of…

Ficus hispida L.f _ Debre (डेबरे )

Family: Moraceae Synonyms: Covellia hispida, Ficus oppositifolia, Covellia oppositifoliaEnglish name: Hairy Fig Local name: Debre (डेबरे ) Debre trees grow wild in mid hills of Himachal Pradesh upto an elevation of 1100 metres above sea level.  Debra plants are mostly seen growing along the water streams, forest edges, and open spaces along the base of foothills. Video…

Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn _ Lingdu (लिंगडू)

Family: Ploypodiaceae Synonym: Eupteris aquiline, Pteridium latiusculum, Pteridium pinetorum, Pteris aquiline, Pteris capensis, Pteris decomposita, Pteris lanuginose,Pteris latiuscula.Common name: No name in English but an edible fern quite similar to lingadu in  appearance and taste growing in America is called fiddlehead  fern and bracken fern in other parts of world. Local name: Lingdu (लिंगडू). Lingdu…

Dioscorea melanophyma Prain & Burkill_ Singhtu (सिंघटु)

Family: Dioscoreaceae Synonyms: Dioscorea tenii Local name: Singhtu (सिंघटु) Singhtu grows in upper mid-hill regions over bushes and shrubs in open scrub forests, forest margins and roadsides from 1500-2400 m in Western Himalayas. It bears small tubers which are boiled and then prepared like a vegetable. Singhtu is appear as a seasonal climber which starts appearing with…

Dioscorea bulbifera L._ Pahadi Tardi (पहाड़ी तरडी)

Family: Dioscoreaceae Synonyms: Dioscorea crispata, Dioscorea pulchella, Dioscorea latifolia. Helmia bulbifera English names: Air potato, air yam, bitter yam, cheeky yam, potato yam. Local name: Pahadi Tardi (पहाड़ी तरडी) Pahadi Tardi is a common plant found growing all over lower to mid-hills of Western Himalayas. Tardi plant is represented by two different species in Western…

Bombax ceiba L _ Simbal (सिम्बल)

Family: Malvaceae Synonyms: Bombax malabaricum, Gossampinus malabarica, Salmalia malabarica Common name: Silk cotton tree Local name: Simbal (सिम्बल) Trees of simbal are widely distributed all over Western Himalayas upto an elevation of 1300 metres above sea level.  These trees can be seen growing in fields, village common lands, roadsides and forests.  A characteristic feature of…

Bauhinia variegata (L.) Benth. _ Karyale (करयाले), kachnar (कचनार).

Family: Fabaceae Synonyms: Bauhinia alba, Bauhinia candida, Phanera variegata. Common names: Orchid tree, camel’s foot, mountain ebony. Local names: Karyale (करयाले), kachnar (कचनार). Karyale trees can be seen growing all over India upto an elevation of 1700 metres above sea level.  Wild growing trees of this plant exist most commonly in semi-deciduous forests, in border…

Agave cantala (Haw.) Roxb. ex Salm-Dyck _ Desi Ramban (देसी रामबाण) 

Family:  Asparagaceae Synonyms:   Furcraea cantala Common names:  Bombay Aloe, Cantala, Cantala Fibre, Cebu Maguey, Manila Maguey Local name:    Desi Ramban (देसी रामबाण) Desi raambaan plants can be seen growing in wastelands and farm borders almost everywhere in mid hills of western Himalayan region upto an attitudinal range of 1500 m  It is an evergreen, succulent,…

Morus alba L_ Chimmu (चिम्मू), toot (तूत).

Family; Moraceae Common name:  White mulberry Local Name: _ Chimmu (चिम्मू), toot (तूत). In India as well as in China, the most important use of mulberry trees is the leaves, which are fed to silkworms. According to botanists, chimmu is a native of China.  In fact, mulberry, which in common language covers all types of…

Bambusa arundinacea (Retz) Willd. _Bans (बांस)

Family: Poaceae  Synonyms: Arundo bambos, Nastus arundinaceuCommon name: Bamboo, spiny bamboo, thorny bamboo.Local name: Bans (बांस) Bans can be seen growing all over India. This plant is very common in the moist deciduous forests, along streams and water courses in Western Himalayas upto an altitude of 1250 m . It forms impenetrable thickets, extending over vast…

Amaranthus viridis L _ Chaulayee (चौलाई),

Family:  Amaranthaceae Synonyms:  Amaranthus acutilobus, Amaranthus gracilis Common name: Wild amaranth, slender amaranth, green amaranthus Local name:  Chaulayee (चौलाई), Jangali Chaulai Chaulayee is a cosmopolitan herb. It is commonly present in all warmer regions of India. Plant is a vigorous herb that grows wild during summer season in Western Himalayas It is present usually in…

Senna tora (L.) Roxb. _ Yelo (येलो), Raily (रैली)

Family: FabaceaeSynonyms; Cassia numilis, Cassia obtusifolia,Cassia gallinaria, Cassia tora Common name:   Sickle senna, sickle pod, tora, coffee tora. Local name: Yelo(येलो), Raily (रैली) Yelo plant grows on dry soils. It is commonly found in wastelands throughout the mid-hill regions and can be seen growing on very wide climatic range starting right from sea level and…

Cordia obliqua Willd. _ Lasura, (लसूडा),Lassora, Lessora, Lasora Lasura

Family:  Boraginaceae Synonyms: Cordia wallichii, Cordia myxa, Cordia latifolia,Cordia dichotoma Common name: Clammy Cherry, Sebesten plum Local name:   Lasura, (लसूडा),Lassora, Lessora, Lasora Lassura is a quite widely distributed plant growing all over India.  However, in western Himalayas its trees are seen growing upto an elevation of 1500 metres only.  It is a very vigorous deciduous…

Urtica parviflora Roxb _ Koogas (कूगस,बिच्छूबूटी)

Family: Urticaceae English name: Stinging nettle Local name: Koogas, (कूगस,बिच्छूबूटी) Koogas Urtica parviflora is a quite widespread herbaceous perennial plant growing all over the hills up to 3700 meter. There are two other plant known by same local name viz. Urtica dioica and Girardiana heterophylla. All these three plants are considered as teacher of students…

Stellaria media(L.) Vill. _ Padyaala

Family: Caryophyllaceae Synonyms: Alsine media Common name:Chikweed Local name: Padyaala (पडयाला) Padyaala grows as a weed, specially, in shady and damp areas upto an elevation of 4000 m in Himalayas. It grows as weed in many other parts of India too. In fact the species Stellaria media is reported to be a native of Europe…

Rhododendron arboretum Sm _ Buraans (बुरांस)Braah, Buras, Bras or Barah ke phool.

Family: Ericaceae Synonyms: Rhododendron arboretum var. arboretum; Rhododendron puniceum, Rhododendron windsorii Local names: Buraans (बुरांस), Braah, Buras, Bras or Barah ke phool. Burans is an evergreen tree in temperate forests of Himalaya between an altitude of 2300 to 3500 metres.  It bears very attractive bright red flowers.  The flowers, which are edible, appear from March…

Reinwardtia indica Dumort. _ Peenyan (पींयां)

Family;  Linaceae Synonyms Linum trigynum, Reinwardtia trigyna Common name: Yellow flax Local Name: Peenyan(पींयां),Piyoli, Basant Peenyan is a beautiful winter bloomer of Himalayas.Peenyan is ashruband very common in forests, mountain slopes, thickets often in calcareous habitat ascending to 1800 m. These beautiful yellow flowers of   Peenyan   seems to say good bye to to  the winter season and welcome…

Opuntia dillenii (Ker-Gawl.) Haw. _ Drabhad chhoonh (द्राभड़छूंह),

Family: Cactaceae Synonyms: Cactus indicus Hindi name: Nagfani(नागफनी) Common  name: Prickly pear Local name: Drabhad chhoonh (द्राभड़छूंह),kabuli(काबुलीछूंह). Drabhad chhoonh is wild plant of Western Himalayas found in abundance upto an elevation of 1500 metres. It is a xerophytic plant. Drabhad chhoonh thrives best under conditions of drought and erratic rainfall as  well as  in poor…

Morchella esculenta Fr_Guichchhee

Family: Agaricaceae Synonym: Agaricus procerus Common name: Honey combed mushroom, morel. Local name: Guichchhee ( गुच्छी) Guchchhee grows wild in hill forests between elevations of 1500 to 3000 metres.  It grows in the wild only and all efforts made to domesticate it have so far remained futile. This mushroom starts appearing soon after the snow…

Medicago polymorphia L _ Khokhna

Family: Fabaceae Synonyms: Medicago denticulate. Medicago hispida Common name: Bur clover Local name: Khokhna (खोखना) Khokhna is native to western and central Asia and countries around the Mediterranean.  It has now spread to all parts of the world and has been introduced widely around the world. It is found in particular regions with a Mediterranean…

Euphorbia royleana Boiss_Chhoohin (छूहीं )

Family: Euphorbiaceae Synonyms:Euphorbia pentagona Local names:Chhoohin (छूहीं ),Danda thor (डंडाथोर), Chu (छूँ) Chhoohin is normally considered as a worthless plant of waste lands. It is a xerophyte shrub or small tree, which grows upto an elevation of 2000 metres in Western Himalayas. Chhoohin is a very common plant among barren rocky hills where usually very…

Dioscorea belophylla (Prain) Viogt ex Haines._Taradi (तरडी)

Family: DioscoriaceSynonyms: Dioscorea nummularifolia, Dioscorea glabra.Common name :RuidingLocal name: Taradi (तरडी) Taradi is a very slender vine that grows wild, mostly in forests of mid-hill region of Western Himalayas upto an altitude of 1800 m .  Though it is a very slender vine, which remains active only during the warm growing season, but it produces…