‘Neodomesticates’ of the Himalayan allium spices (Allium species) in Uttarakhand, India and studies on eco-geography and morphology

The study on Himalayan allium spices was undertaken with specific reference to commercially important taxa belonging to the genus Allium viz. A. stracheyi Baker, A. wallichii Kunth, A. przewaliskianum Regel and an Allium ‘new type’. Based on eco-geographical and morphological studies, the ‘new type’ Allium was identified as ‘neodomesticate’ for the western Himalaya region, Uttarakhand, along with other potential less-known taxa viz. A. stracheyi, A. wallichii, and A. przewaliskianum that are yet to be cultivated on large scale in India. Data on morphological characters of all four species when was subjected to statistical analysis Allium ‘new type’ grouped closer to A. przewaliskianum as compared to remaining two taxa. The study is aimed to support use of morphological data in species identification besides enhancing knowledge on propagation, post-harvest methods, conservation status and species uses that would facilitate trade related practices for economic enhancement of the farming communities.