Biology, distribution and population status of Gymnocladus assamicus.

Abstract This chapter describes the biology, distribution and population status of G. assamicus, which is elaborated with informative field data. The genus Gymnocladus belongs to the family Leguminosae and subfamily Caesalpinioideae. It has a basal position in phylogenetic schemes and is highly diverse in floral form and ontogeny. G. assamicus mostly grows on hill slopes and along the banks of streams. The tree remains completely leafless for over two months during winter. New leaves appear during early March followed by flowering during April which lasts only for 15-20 days. Fully mature pods persist on the trees until the next flowering season.