Ochlandra travancorica

Ochlandra travancorica known locally as Kattumundam in Malayalam and Vellai Bambu in Tamil, is a clumping bamboo species native to the Western Ghats in Kerala and Tamil Nadu, southern India. It thrives in tropical and subtropical forests, particularly in hill slopes and along stream beds, and is found at elevations ranging from 300 to 1,500 meters above sea level. This bamboo grows best in moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soils, preferring slightly acidic to neutral soil types.

The plant has a dense growth habit and spreads vigorously. Its culms can reach a height of 4 to 10 meters and have a diameter of 3 to 7 cm. The culms are light green to pale yellow in color, with internodes ranging from 25 to 40 cm. The culm sheaths are green when young and turn light brown with age, and they have a glabrous adaxial surface and a soft, fine-haired abaxial surface. The sheaths' margins are ciliate.

The leaves of Ochlandra travancorica are lanceolate, with smooth edges and pointed tips. They typically measure 20 to 40 cm in length and 3 to 6 cm in breadth, with soft, smooth surfaces on both sides.

This bamboo species produces a dense, large panicle inflorescence with numerous spikelets. The flowering glumes are small, ovate, and mostly glabrous, and the stamens are exserted with glabrous anthers. Ochlandra travancorica flowers once every 35 to 50 years, with flowering observed sporadically, especially in Kerala. The seeds are small, light, and dispersed by wind, with slow germination that requires high humidity and specific temperature conditions.

Propagation of this bamboo is commonly achieved through culm cuttings, where mature culms are planted to sprout new shoots. Clump division, where mature clumps are divided and replanted, is another method. Seed germination is rare due to the slow germination rate.

The bamboo has various uses, such as in crafting, where it is used to make handicrafts, baskets, and mats. It is also suitable for light construction, especially for roofing and scaffolding. Additionally, it has potential for use in paper pulp production. In rural areas, Ochlandra travancorica serves as fuel wood and is occasionally planted for ornamental purposes due to its striking appearance.

In summary, Ochlandra travancorica is a versatile bamboo species with applications in crafting, construction, and fuel, and its unique flowering cycle and slow propagation process make it a fascinating addition to the bamboo family.