Diversity, Ethnobotany, and Conservation of Cactus Species at the Himalayan Botanical Garden, Nainital, Uttarakhand

Rajni Rawat, Akash Gangwar, Swati, Deepak Tiwari, Anand Lal Arya

Abstract: The Himalayan Botanical Garden (HBG), Nainital, maintains a curated collection of 50 cactus and succulent species representing the plant family Cactaceae and associated succulent taxa. This paper documents the species diversity, ethnobotanical uses, ornamental value, and conservation potential of these arid-adapted plants in a temperate Himalayan context. The collection includes both native and exotic species, with significant ecological, horticultural, and economic value. The study underlines the role of ex-situ conservation in promoting awareness and sustainable utilization of succulents, especially in changing climatic regimes.

Keywords: Botanical garden, Cactus, Ethnobotany, Ex-situ conservation, Ornamental plants, Himalayan region

How to Cite?: Rajni Rawat, Akash Gangwar, Swati, Deepak Tiwari, Anand Lal Arya, "Diversity, Ethnobotany, and Conservation of Cactus Species at the Himalayan Botanical Garden, Nainital, Uttarakhand", Volume 14 Issue 12, December 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1530-1534, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR251217124602, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR251217124602