Ceropegia Shivrayiana: New Plant Species Honors Shivaji

Discovery and Research Team

• New flowering plant species discovered in Vishalgad premises, Kolhapur district, Maharashtra
• Named Ceropegia shivrayiana in honor of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj

Research team includes:

• Akshay Jangam, Ratan More, Dr. Nilesh Pawar (New College, Kolhapur)

• Dr. Sharad Kamble (Chandwad, Nashik)

• Prof. Dr. S. R. Yadav (Shivaji University, Kolhapur)

• Findings published in Phytotaxa, an international journal from New Zealand
• Discovery made after six years of studying Vishalgad Fort's flora
• Plant found in August 2023, confirmed as a new species after expert analysis

Botanical Characteristics and Significance

• Belongs to the Ceropegia genus, also known as "kandil pushp" (lantern flower)
• Part of the Asclepiadaceae family, known for medicinal plants
• Differs from similar species Ceropegia lawii Hooker f.
• Grows in rocky areas with nutrient-poor soil
• Tubular flowers attract moths for pollination
• Rare plant found only in India
• Highlights the biodiversity and ecological importance of Vishalgad Fort
• Adds to India's botanical heritage

Unique features:

• Climbing habit

• Hairy peduncles

• Obovate corolla cage with reflexed corolla lobes

Cultural and Historical Significance

• Named after Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj, also known as Chhatrapati Shivray
• Discovered on Vishalgad Fort, one of Shivaji's renowned fortresses
• Honors Shivaji's legacy and connection to the region
• Reflects Shivaji's understanding of forts and surrounding forests for Swarajya's defense
• Highlights Shivaji's orders to create protected areas for plants in Sahyadri forts
• Combines botanical discovery with historical tribute
• Emphasizes the importance of conservation in historically significant areas