Page 17 - Cosmos Edition 3

WONDEROUS MIRACLES OF NATURE:

“A FLOWER THAT BLOOMS ONCE IN 12 YEARS”

The abundance of nature in the area of the Nilgiri
Hills, Munnar (a district in Kochi, Kerala), plainly
suggests the presence of some rather curious cases

of plant life. The Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthi-
anus) is a shrub that is found in the Western Ghats,

including areas of Kerala and Tamil Nadu. The bi-
zarre phenomenon exhibited by these flowers are

the reason they are so well-mentioned in the biological world today.

Why Does It Bloom Once In Twelve Years? The Kurinji plant has adapted to
live in forest regions and therefore it is more prone to animals, birds and insects

trying to consume it. Therefore it is adapted to protecting itself from being con-
sumed. Therefore it changes its growth cycle to adapt to the surroundings.

Did you know?

The most recent seasonal blooming of these flowers took place in 2018, indicat-
ing that the last blooming before the current one took place in 2006.

The Kurinji plant belongs to the genus Strobilanthes which was first scientifically

described by Christian Gottfried Daniel Nees Von Esenbeck in the 19th century.
The genus has around 250 species, of which at least 46 are found in India. Most

of these species show an unusual flowering behaviour, varying from annual to
16-year blooming cycles.

The flower gets its name because of its appearance, Neela meaning blue and Ku-

rinji meaning flower in the local language. The seeds of the shrub sprout accord-
ing to its intervals and continue the cycle of life and death. A symbol of rich bio-

diversity, the Neelakurinji is one of the most awaited natural wonders that at-
tract environmentalist and people from across India and around the world.

-Suha Riyas

Class 6 A
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