A new rootstock for raising true to type Taryambal (Ficus roxburghii Wall.) - a dwindling minor fruit species

Abstract

Ficus roxburghii, “elephant ear” or wild fig is valued for its edible fruits, medicinal uses, fodder for cattle and other purposes like use of leaves as plates for serving food. However, the population of this species is declining at an alarming rate in Himachal Pradesh as revealed by the survey conducted recently, possibly due to low germination, changing climate and loss of habitat. Many elite genotypes have disappeared over time in this process. Hence, a study was carried out to raise F. roxburghii through alternative propagation technique to conserve the elite genotypes and produce true to type nursery stock of selected genotypes for further plantation in field.