The rabi maize, that is being popularised in the eastern parts of the country may suffer from charcoal rot disease [Rhizoctonia bataticola Taub. Butl. (Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid.)] if the pathogen gets timely entry into the host, as has been revealed in the present study. In vitro studies show that the spread of the pathogen within the maize stalk is influenced by high temperature, the optimum being 38°C. The role of RH on the incidence of this disease was, however, not well defined. These observations hold true as well for the data recorded in the field.

Strobilanthes kunthiana (Nees) T. Anderson ex Benth locally known as Neelakurinji is an endemic to Western Ghat, India and belongs to the Acanthaceae family. It has a unique flowering pattern to bloom every 12 years. The objective of this review is to highlight the taxonomy, distribution, ecology, biology, pharmacological properties, and conservation status of Strobilanthes kunthiana. The plant S. kunthiana is a rich source of pharmacological constituents and can act as herbal alternatives for various disorders. This review discusses the unique botany specifically the flowering pattern for in-depth study to conserve not only for tourism but also for exploring its pharmacological properties and usefulness in apiary. Finally, this review highlights the potential research areas that should be interlinked with promotion of tourism with Neelakurinji attraction as well as its potential use in apiary.

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.