Flora In Jim Corbett National Park

Corbett National Park Flora

Located on the foothills of the Himalayas, Corbett National Park is adorned with dense forest and a vast range of flora species. Extending over an area of approximately 1318 sq. km, the Corbett has a diverse floral count which is absolutely astonishing. The various types of habitat in Corbett are occupied by Sal forests, Khair-Sisso forests, Mountains, Chaur, and rivers and streams that owe their distinct assemblage of plants. As reported by the Botanical Survey of India, Jim Corbett National Park is home to approximately 600 different plant species, including trees, shrubs, ferns, grasses, climbers, herbs, and bamboo. The diverse range of plant life contributes to the park's appeal as a preferred wildlife destination for individuals seeking respite from their busy schedules throughout the year. In addition to being one of the richest habitats for wild animals, the park is also abundant in various types of vegetation. Notably, over 75% of Jim Corbett's area is covered by Sal forests, further enhancing its ecological significance.

Trees :

The most prominent trees in Jim Corbett are Sal, Khair, and Sissoo. In addition to these, various other species contribute to the rich soundscape of the park. Chir Pine is the only conifer species present within this area. Portions of Corbett are also characterised by expansive Bamboo forests. The primary species found here is Male Bamboo (Dendrocalamus strictus), known for its stout, clustered stems and its glossy, papery stem sheaths. Bamboos have a unique flowering cycle, as they all bloom simultaneously after several decades. Following this synchronised flowering, they produce seeds, and subsequently, all the bamboo plants die together.

1. Sal (Shorea robusta): Sal is the dominant tree species in the park and forms dense forests. It is highly valued for its timber and is one of the most economically significant tree species in India.
2. Khair (Acacia catechu): Khair, also known as catechu or black catechu, is a deciduous tree species found in the park. It has several traditional uses, including for medicinal purposes.
3. Sissoo (Dalbergia sissoo): Sissoo is a fast-growing deciduous tree species found in the park. It is known for its durable wood and is often planted for its shade.
4. Bamboo (Bambusoideae): Various species of bamboo can be found in Corbett National Park. Bamboo is an important component of the park's ecosystem, providing food and habitat for several animal species.
5. Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana): Ber is a small deciduous tree species found in the park. It produces small, edible fruits and is also used for various medicinal purposes.
6. Kachnar (Bauhinia variegata): Kachnar is a flowering tree species found in the park. It is known for its beautiful pink and white flowers.
7. Amaltas (Cassia fistula): Amaltas, also known as the Indian laburnum, is a medium-sized deciduous tree species found in the park. It is known for its bright yellow flowers and is often planted for ornamental purposes.
8. Semal (Bombax ceiba): Semal, also known as the silk cotton tree, is a tall deciduous tree species found in the park. It produces large red flowers and has a distinctive trunk with thorny spikes.
9. Chir Pine (Pinus roxburghii): Chir Pine is a coniferous tree species found in the higher elevations of the park. It forms open forests and is an important source of timber and resin.
10. Haldu (Adina cordifolia): Haldu is a medium-sized deciduous tree species found in the park. It has smooth, grey bark and produces small, fragrant flowers.

Flowering Trees :

Green is the essential colour of nature, and the diverse range of flowering trees in Corbett enhances the forests with this vibrant hue. The forests of Corbett are adorned with many flowering plants, among which some notable examples include -
• Kachnar (Bauhinia Variegata), known for its white to pink flowers
• Semal (Bombax ceiba), distinguished by its large red blossoms
• Dhak, commonly referred to as the flame of the forest, displays striking orange blooms.
• Madaar or Indian Coral (Erythrina indica) features brilliant red flowers
• Amaltas (Cassia fistula) is celebrated for its stunning yellow, chandelier-like clusters of blossoms.
However, certain tree species that are not native to Corbett have been introduced artificially in areas surrounding the park's habitation. These species include Teak (Tectona grandis), Silver Oak (Grevillea robusta), Eucalyptus, Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosaefolia), and Bottlebrush (Callistemon viminalis). Visitors can spot these trees in and around the forest rest houses located within the Corbett Tiger Reserve.

Shrubs :

The Corbett forest is also dominated by several species of Ber (Zizyphus) found in open areas, and is a boon for many birds and animals, providing food and habitat to them. If you look at the fruits of this amazing shrub, they are in the form of twisted, spiralling pods. Jhau is a different kind of shrub found along the Ramganga basin on sandy or rocky soil.

Bamboo :

In Jim Corbett National Park, the predominant species of bamboo is known as Male Bamboo, or Calcutta Bamboo. This medium-sized bamboo typically reaches heights of 8 to 20 meters and has a diameter ranging from 2.5 to 8 cm. Unlike many bamboo varieties found in humid environments, Male Bamboo features solid stems rather than hollow ones. The flowering period for this species occurs from November to February, after which it produces fruit until April.