New flowering plant species recorded in Assam and Meghalaya forests

A new species of flowering plant, Disporum kamakhasiense, has been documented in the forests of Assam and Meghalaya, according to Nagaland Post on 5 November 2026. The discovery was published in the international botanical journal Novon and is credited to a team of researchers led by Dixit Bora, Biswajit Paul, Devanjal Bora, Aaron Floden and Dipankar Borah.

Discovery and publication

The research paper identifies Disporum kamakhasiense as a distinct member of the Colchicaceae family. The authors note that the species differs from closely related varieties, including those found in Thailand and Myanmar, by several morphological traits. The scientific name combines references to Kamrupa, the ancient name for Assam, and the Khasi Hills of Meghalaya, indicating the regions where the plant was first collected.

Distribution and habitat

Field surveys recorded the herb at three locations: Garbhanga Reserve Forest in Assam, Laisong in Dima Hasao district and the Barapani area of Meghalaya. The plant grows on cliffs, primarily beneath bamboo forests, at elevations ranging from 200 to 1,100 metres. It has been observed growing alongside other plant species such as Peristylus constrictus and various Phyllanthus varieties, suggesting a preference for mixed understory habitats.

Botanical characteristics

Disporum kamakhasiense is a perennial herb that can reach a height of up to 180 cm, considerably taller than its closest relative Disporum calcaratum, which generally attains around 100 cm. The stems are extensively branched, and the leaves are broad, yellowish-green with prominent veins and a smooth surface. The flowers are white and star-shaped, borne on longer stalks than those of related species, and the stamens are described as shorter and thicker. These features, together with its larger overall size, set the species apart from other members of the genus.

Conservation status

The authors highlight that the species has so far been recorded in only a few small populations, with very few individual plants found at each site. The study describes Disporum kamakhasiense as “potentially endangered”, citing threats such as road expansion, over-exploitation and deforestation. India Today NE was referenced for the assessment of these threats. The researchers stress that protecting the limited cliff and bamboo-forest habitats where the plant occurs will be crucial for its long-term survival.