New Flowering Plant Impatiens nagorum Discovered in Nagaland’s Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary

Category : National Published on: February 28 2026

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Botanists have identified a new species of flowering plant, Impatiens nagorum, in Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary. The discovery, published in Phytotaxa, highlights the rich yet underexplored biodiversity of Northeast India. The research was conducted by scientists from Kohima Science College, Nagaland University, the University of Warsaw, and the Botanical Survey of India.
Belonging to the genus Impatiens, commonly known as balsams or touch-me-nots, the plant grows up to 35 cm tall and bears striking purple flowers. It was found at 2,336 metres in moist temperate broadleaf forests. Distinct features include serrated leaves, slightly hairy lateral sepals, and a deep lower sepal with a hooked spur.
Only about 20 individuals have been recorded, indicating rarity. The species is endemic to Nagaland, reinforcing the ecological importance of the biodiverse Eastern Himalayas region and the need for continued exploration and conservation efforts.