A Phenological Study of Butea pellita Hook.f. Ex Prain, an Endemic and Critically Endangered Shrub of the Kumaun Himalayas

Abstract

Background: Butea pellita Hook.f. ex Prain, a critically endangered and endemic shrub of Uttarakhand, India, lacks documented phenological records crucial for its conservation. Aim: This study investigates the phenological patterns of B. pellita to provide insights into its seasonal life cycle and regeneration strategies. Methodology: Field observations over two years (2022 & 2023) in Patwadangar village (29.33°N, 79.43°E) recorded key life cycle events, including vegetative growth, flowering, fruiting, and dormancy. Results: B. pellita exhibited a nine-month growth cycle, with shoot emergence in April, peak flowering in June-July, and seed maturation by November. Pollination was primarily facilitated by bees and butterflies, while natural regeneration relied on rootstock proliferation. Conclusion: The study highlights significant challenges for conservation, including low seed viability and poor germination rates. These findings provide crucial insights for undertaking conservation strategies, and emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to ensure the long-term survival of this species in its natural habitat.