Ornamental Curcuma Species in Western Ghats of India

Efforts for collection, characterization and classification of genetic resources of wild relatives of turmeric in India resulted in sampling a total of 105 accessions devoid of sessile tubers. Of these 40 accessions belonging to 13 identified species, two varieties and three unidentified entities were characterized and assessed in in situ and ex situ maintenance plots for their ornamental value. Among them Curcuma mutabilis and C. inodora topped the list with a score of 9 followed by C. albiflora, C. oligantha var. oligantha, C. oligantha var. lutea, Curcuma spp. 1 and 2 with a score of 8 each. C. karnatakensis and C. thalakaveriensis with a score of 7 each are also ahead of species such as C. decipiens, C. coriacea, C. pseudomontana, C. neilgherrensis, C. kudagensis and Curcuma sp. 3 with a score of 6. Falling under Sect. Stolonifera C. vamana had the lowest score of 5. The subjective assessment of the genetic erosion encountered with respect to the species and future problems and prospectus of their utilization for ornamental purpose is also dealt with, in brief.