Plant species diversity in the traditional homegardens of Meitei community: a case study from Barak Valley, Assam

A survey of plant species in the traditional homegardens of Meitei community was conducted in Rajubari village of Cachar district in Barak Valley (southern Assam), in northeast India. A total of 92 species (38 trees, 10 shrubs, and 44 herbs) were enumerated from 36 homegardens. Meitei homegardens, locally called Ingkhol, also varied widely in size, shape, and composition. Food products, firewood, medicinal plants, ornamentals, and some cash income are obtained from these gardens. The tree legume, Parkia timoriana (locally yongchak) is a characteristic feature of the Meitei homegardens. Intensification of betel nut (Areca catechu) production has been observed in some gardens. Many of the traditional crops grown in the Meitei homegardens have a role in the conservation and maintenance of living ʹheirloomsʹ and such practices need to be strengthened. The baseline data generated suggest that traditional homegarden is a site for biodiversity management and conservation by the Meitei community.