VAGAMON, IDUKKI: The biodiversity-rich Western Ghats has yielded another significant botanical discovery, with researchers describing five new species of flowering plants belonging to the genus Impatiens, commonly known as balsams.

The five newly described species are Impatiens flavispicata, Impatiens filcyii, Impatiens ninanii, Impatiens xanthopetala and Impatiens berchmansiensis. The species were identified during field explorations in the southern Western Ghats of Kerala and have been formally described in a research paper published in the international journal PhytoKeys. 

New species found in Vagamon

Of particular interest to Idukki is Impatiens berchmansiensis, which was discovered in Vagamon. The scientific paper records the type locality on muddy highland slopes in Vagamon at an elevation of approximately 850 metres above sea level. The species was collected during fieldwork in October 2024.

The newly identified plant produces small yellow flowers and has distinctive characteristics that distinguish it from closely related Impatiens species. Researchers estimate that around 100 to 150 mature individuals were found across the studied Vagamon localities. Its known area of occupancy is less than one square kilometre, although the researchers say it may occur in other parts of the Western Ghats.

Interestingly, the name Impatiens berchmansiensis honours St. Berchmans College, Changanassery, recognising the institution's contribution to education and botanical research.

A plant adapted to a specialised habitat

Researchers found I. berchmansiensis growing along muddy slopes at elevations between about 800 and 1,100 metres. It occurs alongside other plants including Utricularia caerulea, Drosera indica and Rhynchoglossum notonianum. The species flowers mainly between August and November.

The researchers have currently recommended a Data Deficient (DD) category for the species under the IUCN criteria because its distribution and population require further study. The limited known range and potential pressure from human activity make continued monitoring important.

Five species add to Western Ghats biodiversity

The discovery highlights the remarkable botanical diversity of Kerala's Western Ghats. Impatiens is particularly diverse in this region, with many species adapted to very specific habitats. The researchers conducted field surveys between July 2023 and March 2026, examining specimens, comparing them with herbarium collections and studying morphological and pollen characteristics before confirming the five plants as species new to science.

For Vagamon, the discovery adds another dimension to the hill station's natural heritage. Along with its grasslands, forests, streams and unique highland ecosystems, the presence of a newly described plant species underlines the importance of protecting the area's fragile natural habitats.