Rhododendrons

Context: Rhododendrons carpet Darjeeling, Sikkim Himalayas.

About Rhododendrons:

• Rhododendron is a large genus of flowering plants that are found mainly in the Eastern Himalayas, Western Himalayas, and Nilgiris.
• They are native to many regions of the world, including Asia, Europe, North America, and Australia.

• The species is found in varied habitats from subtropical forests to alpine shrubs, rhododendrons range from dwarf shrubs to large trees.
• Some plants of Rhododendron are evergreen while others are deciduous in nature.
• The species has been designated as the State tree of Uttarakhand.
• Darjeeling and Sikkim Himalayas are home to one-third (34%) of all Rhododendron types and comprise only 0.3% of India’s geographical area.
• Rhododendrons are indicator species.
• They are facing a high threat due to anthropological pressures and climate change.

Source: The Hindu

Previous Year Questions

Q.1) With reference to “Gucchi” sometimes mentioned in the news, consider the following statements. (2022)

1. It is a fungus.
2. It grows in some Himalayan Forest areas.
3. It is commercially cultivated in the Himalayan foothills of north-eastern India.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 3 only
3. 1 and 2
4. 2 and 3

Q.2) Which of the following are nitrogen-fixing plants? (2022)

1. Alfalfa
2. Amaranth
3. Chickpea
4. Clover
5. Purslane (Kulfa)
6. Spinach

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

1. 1, 3, and 4 only
2. 1, 3, 5, and 6 only
3. 2, 4, 5, and 6 only
4. 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6