Question

Identify the incorrect statement(s)
i) Strobilanthus kunthiana is locally called 'Neelakurinji'.
ii) It will most probably bloom next in the year 2030.
iii) These are monocarpic.
iv) They are found in plain areas of Kerala. (correct answer + 1, wrong answer - 0.25)

• A. Only ii is incorrect
• B. Both ii and iv are incorrect
• C. Only iii is incorrect
• D. Only iv is incorrect

Answer 1

The correct option is D Only iv is incorrect

Strobilanthus kunthiana is also called NeelaKuranji in local language. It is found in hilly areas of Kerala, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu.

It flowers once in 12 yrs. It flowered once on 2006 (September-October) then in 2018 and hence, next would be in 2030. It produces blue flowers in massive quantity which attracts tourist because all of the hills appearing blue.

Neelakurinji is a monocarpic plant as each shrub reproduces once after flowering and then dies. It takes a particular period for the new seeds to bloom.

The mass flowering occuring every 12 years ensures the survival of the plant because numerous seeds are produced which is not consumed completely by predators. This also provides the best opportunity for the flowers to be seen and studied.