Withania begoniifolia
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
Withania begoniifolia faces severe population decline primarily due to habitat destruction from agricultural expansion and urban development across its limited range in the Western Ghats. The species is further threatened by collection pressure for traditional medicinal uses, as Withania species are valued in Ayurvedic medicine. Climate change poses an additional risk through altered precipitation patterns affecting the specific microhabitat conditions this endemic species requires.
Habitat
This endemic species inhabits the montane forests and grassland edges of the Western Ghats biodiversity hotspot in India. It typically grows in well-drained soils at elevations between 800-1500 meters, often found along forest margins and in disturbed areas with partial shade.
