Why in the News?

Researchers have discovered a new relative of turmeric, which belongs to the genus Curcuma (part of Zingiberaceae). This plant grows to a height of 65-90 cm and produces striking yellow flowers when fully grown. It has been named Curcuma ungmensis after Ungma, a village located in Mokokchung district of Nagaland.

Curcuma Ungmensis

About Zingiberaceae 

• Common Name: Ginger family 
• Plant Type: Mostly tropical perennial herbs, often with aromatic rhizomes (underground stems). 
• Key Characteristics: 
  • Many plants in this family have fragrant rhizomes, leaves or flowers. 
  • Leaves are large, alternate and arranged in two rows (distichous). They have a sheathing base. 
  • Flowers are usually bisexual, zygomorphic (bilaterally symmetrical) and bright-colored. 
• Major Genera: Includes Zingiber (ginger), Curcuma (turmeric), Elettaria (cardamom) and Alpinia. 
• Uses: 
  • Widely used as spices and flavoring agents. 
  • Many plants are known for their medicinal properties, such as turmeric (for its anti-inflammatory properties) and ginger (used to treat nausea and digestion). 
• Habitat: Primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions, especially in Southeast Asia.