Current Status of Rhododendron in Himalayas

The term “Rhododendron,” which comes from the Greek words “Rhodo,” means “Rose,” and “dendron,” which means “tree,” refers to a rose tree. This is a member of the family Ericaceae and grows at elevations between 1200 and 3500 meters. There are 1000 species worldwide, with six of them found in the North West Himalaya. The bark is pinkish brown, and the plant contains red, pinkish, and white flowers. The flowers bloom from early spring to summer, though some bloom early in December or January because of stress and the climate. Rhododendron at higher elevation is associated with high elevation, Quercus semicarpifolia and low elevation are associated with Pinus roxburghii, Myrica esculenta, Quercus leucotrichophora, and Lyonia ovalifolia. Many ailments, including Rheumatism, Diabetes, Diarrhea, Fever, Headaches, Stomachaches, Wounds, and Heart problems, can be treated with R. arboreum. Phenols, steroids, proteins, saponins, tannins, xanthoproteins, ascorbic acid, and coumarins are among the many phytochemicals in plants. This entire plant is utilized for a variety of uses, including food and drink, medicine, tools, religion, decoration, and cleaning the surrounding environment. Therefore, we must develop better strategies regarding protection, conservation to over all development of this wonderful tree species.