Rare Wild Cousin of Garden Balsam Discovered

Recently, a small plant resembling Impatiens uncinata (garden balsam) found in Western Ghats was identified as a new species named Impatiens neo-uncinata.

• The discovery was made during a floristic survey in the Agasthyamala biosphere reserve in Thiruvananthapuram district.
• Initially mistaken for Impatiens uncinata, a detailed study revealed unique characteristics, leading to its classification as a new species.
• Named Impatiens neo-uncinata by researchers, the plant's rarity and limited population suggest an 'Endangered' status.
• Found exclusively in a single locality at elevations between 1,000 to 1,250 meters, its scarcity underscores conservation concerns.
• Notable features include snowy white flowers with red stripes ....