“ Nakima” ( Tupistra clarkei Hook.f., Asparagaceae): a potential vegetable crop of Sikkim, India

During survey and field collection of crop genetic resources in Sikkim and Darjeeling area of Eastern Himalaya, the authors came across the cultivation of “nakima” at homestead as well as field level for its inflorescence being cooked as vegetable. Though past reports refer to it as Tupistra nutans Wall., a critical study revealed its correct identity as T. clarkei Hook.f., an endemic species of Eastern Himalaya and adjoining Meghalaya. Its preference over other vegetables by the local tribal people was noted during market survey in Sikkim and adjoining areas of West Bengal. Apart from being preferred and easy-to-cultivate, higher nutritive and therapeutical values indicate its potential for popularization. Detailed information on botany, ecology, cultivation and utilization of this species is provided. Collecting diverse germplasm, identifying elite types, and developing standard cultivation practices would aid in popularizing the crop.