The Neelakurinji (Strobilanthes kunthianus) shrub flowers only once every 12 years. The phenomenon occurred this year and will last till October. Plants that bloom at long intervals like Neelakurinji are known as plietesials. The shrub grows to a height of 30-60 cm and grows profusely across the shoal grasslands of the Western Ghats. The brilliant blue colour of Kurinji has given the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu the name ‘Nilgiri’ meaning ‘Blue mountains’. Kerala’s Munnar (Anamalai Hills, the Agali Hills and Eravikulam National Park) records the highest number of Neelakurinji plants across India, spreading across 3,000 hectares. Apart from being a feast for the eyes, the flowers also provide sustenance for butterflies, insects and honeybees in the region. The honey from Neelakurinji is said to be medicinal.
‘Strobilanthes kunthianus’ is the scientific name of Neelakurinji. The name is actually derived from the Kunthi River which nourishes the expanse of the renowned grasslands and valleys. Kurinji flower is considered to be a symbol of desire for love and happiness for the poets and for the tribal; it is the symbol of self awakening of a woman. The Neelakurinji blossoming is spread across 3,000 hectares of rolling hills which is covered in purple/blue colors. Each plant reproduces once in its life span and then dies after flowering.
We might have seen or read about a number of blooming valleys and flower-laden grasslands all over the world, but there are many reasons that make Munnar and its Neelakurinji exceptional. The peculiarity of Munnar Neelakurinji is its uniqueness. The flower blooms only in Munnar and nowhere else. Even though the plants are found in a sparse amount in other southern hill stations, the one in Munnar is plentiful, rambling magically across its green mountains.
Picture Credit : Google
