New herb found on Tamil Nadu’s sand dunes; named after President Droupadi Murmu
Research Matters Staff Writer(s) Tamil Nadu 15 Aug 2026 Botanists have discovered a previously unknown plant species growing along the sandy shores of the Coromandel Coast. The new species, a small herb named Leucas droupadiae , was identified by a research team from Annamalai University and Government Siddha Medical College during a survey of the coastal dunes in the Cuddalore district of Tamil…
In August 2026, researchers from Annamalai University and Government Siddha Medical College made a significant discovery on the sandy shores of the Coromandel Coast in Tamil Nadu, India. They identified a previously unknown plant species, named Leucas droupadiae, after the nation's 15th President, Droupadi Murmu. The small herb thrives in nutrient-poor, sandy habitats yet stands out with its unique growth habit and distinctive seeds.
Despite its striking appearance, Leucas droupadiae is still labeled as "Data Deficient" due to its limited known range and threats from grazing activities and eucalyptus plantations. The researchers are urging further studies to safeguard this coastal survivor before it disappears from scientific understanding.
Written by urgent.news from Research Matters India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
