Mains(GS III) – Biodiversity, Environment and conservation.
Why in the News?
Jacaranda trees in Munnar, Kerala, are currently in full bloom, attracting tourists and nature enthusiasts.
It blooms between February and April, enhancing tourism in hill stations.
Local Name –Neelavaka in Kerala.
Family – Bignoniaceae.
Type – Deciduous tree.
Native to -Central and South America, Cuba, Jamaica, and the Bahamas.
Introduced to India and other tropical regions by British for ornamental purposes
Locations Found– Munnar (Kerala), Bengaluru, Delhi, and other urban areas as an ornamental tree.
Climatic Conditions - Present in Sub-tropical climates, Need well-drained soil, Cultivated in warm regions and greenhouses.
Features- It has striking lavender-hued blossoms, Vibrant blue or violet flowers, Distinct and oppositely arranged compound leaves.
The flower emits UV to attract insects, especially butterflies or birds,ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the bluish violet colours of the flower disappears when the pollination is completed.
Importance - It attracts hummingbirds and bees, wood is used in guitar-making, the Bark and roots have medicinal properties.
Concerns
Climate Change – Some trees have started early blooming and this can be due to climate change.
Non – native species – It has potential to be an invasive species affecting our local ecosystems.
