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ABSTRACTSantalum albumis a hemiparasitic evergreen tree known for its heartwood oil, widely used in the cosmetics and aromatherapy industry. Overexploitation in the past few decades has led to the classification of this species as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Drupes of S. album are single-seeded and usually monoembryonic in nature, producing normal seedlings. However, in a previous study, we also observed some polyembryonic seeds. In this news article we share our polyembryony findings from Marayoor population as well as the growth and survival of seedlings which emerged from polyembryonic seeds. We found that less than 1% of the seeds in Marayoor population exhibited polyembryony (duplets). The general trend was that one radicle emerged 2-3 days earlier than the other and grew faster and healthier compared to the radicle from monoembryonic seeds. The second (smaller) seedling from polyembryonic seeds began to degenerate if not separated, but it survived well (albeit with low growth potential) once transplanted into a separate polybag. In S. album, polyembryony does not seems to be an essential ecological competitive strategy, unlike in several invasive species. For mass-scale seedling production of this vulnerable species, we recommend separating twin seedlings soon after their emergence for a better survival rate.

The article discusses the Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute (JNTBGRI) in Kerala, India, which serves as a bridge between urban life and nature. The garden educates visitors on plant research, conservation, and the environment, and hosts events to promote sustainable practices. With over 4500 plant species, JNTBGRI is a hub of biodiversity. The garden also plays a role in training forest officials and raising awareness about conservation. Overall, JNTBGRI reminds us of the importance of being stewards of the planet's vitality. [Extracted from the article]

The article analyzes how plant species worldwide are collated, documented and assessed to reveal their current status and show how different species of plants are faring. Topics discussed include information on "The State of the World's Plants," a document published by the Royal Botanic Garden, number of plant species known to science, development of a new tool GlobalTreeSearch by Botanic Gardens Conservation International and extinction of a plant species.

Aegle marmelos(Bilva) is being used in Ayurveda for the treatment of several inflammatory disorders. The plant is a member of a fixed dose combination of Dashamoola in Ayurveda. However, the usage of roots/root bark or stems is associated with sustainability concerns.

The article presents a diary of the activities of floriculturist Anurag Dhyani. It focuses on the floriculturist's dream fulfillment of exploring the wilds of the Himalayan Region in India and for further studies on Lilium polyphyllum by joining the High Altitude Plant Physiology Research Centre. The author details his daily activities with the institute on research on the conservation aspects, ecophysiology, seed biology and cultivation of the Lily species.

A personal narrative is presented which explores the author's experience of trekking in the foothills of the western Himalayas for having a look at the L. polyphyllum lily blooming in the area.