Nature’s Hidden Jewels: Exploring the Untapped Potential of Ornamental Plants in Northeast India

Abstract

Northeast India is a center of plant diversity. In this area tropical subtropical, temperate and high‑altitude ecosystems all live together. The eight states—Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura—hold a variety of ornamental plants. These include orchids, rhododendrons, begonias, aroids, gingers, lilies, ferns and many flowering trees and shrubs. Some ornamental crops are already grown commercially. Many native and lesser‑known plants are still underused. Plants have flowers, leaves, smells, shapes and can adapt to many environments. Earlier surveys showed how rich the orchid collection is in Northeast India. New studies and projects by institutions keep finding plants and new chances, for protection and for making money. The future of these plants does not depend on picking from the wild. Instead a balanced plan that mixes exploration, recording, protection, scientific growing, tissue culture, commercial planting adding value and building markets is needed. This article looks at the wealth of Northeast India. It explains how underused native plants can help flower farming, city gardens, village incomes, new businesses and the protection of biodiversity.