Diversity and seasonal availability of wild vegetables from Bhandara region of Maharshtra State, India

Abstract

This study records plant species used by local people in their diet (curries, vegetables), as medicine, as crops that generate income and as plants of special cultural and religious significance. The study area is restricted to local people, forest guard and vaidu that are connected with forest . They are Mainly depend on plants and plant products for their food requirement. This study reveals traditional knowledge of wild edible plants and their utilization. As different plants are available in different seasons, the name of the plant changes according to the area. This study report is based on survey, field work and interview studies on wild vegetables used by rural people and the Gond tribe of 7 Talukas in Bhandara district, Maharashtra State, India. During August 2020 to October 2022. Total of 84 plant species belonging to 42 families have been recorded as wild vegetables in the study areas, of which herb is ranked first with 45%species, followed by shrub -19%, climber- 19%, and tree -16% . Among the 84 species 40% contribute as vegetables by their leaves, 16% by fruit , 6% by flower, 7% by shoot, 6% by root and tuber, 11% by both leaves-Flower, 5% by seed. 7% by the whole plant. The greatest plant diversity and availability is found between July to September and August to October, while some specific vegetables are year-round. It is evident from the survey that most of the wild plant species are used as vegetable/chutney.