Wild Flowers of India

Wild Flowers of India – A Philatelic Tribute

India’s botanical wealth is one of the richest in the world, shaped by its diverse climatic zones and varied topography. From the lush tropical rainforests to high alpine meadows, and from temperate woodlands to coastal wetlands, every corner of the country hosts species of exceptional beauty and ecological significance. There is scarcely a region in India that does not nurture a plant of rare charm or scientific interest.

Honouring this natural heritage, India Post presents a collection of commemorative stamps featuring twelve rare and exquisite wild flowers found across the nation. These stamps celebrate India’s floral diversity while underscoring the importance of its conservation.

Roundleaf Asiabell

Botanical Name: Codonopsis rotundifolia
Family: Campanulaceae (Bellflower family)

A perennial vine of the high Himalayas, the Roundleaf Asiabell produces graceful, greenish-white bell-shaped flowers accented with purple veins. Sepals are long, leaf-like and slightly hairy. Found at altitudes of 1,800–3,600 metres, it blooms during July and August.

Himalayan Iris

Botanical Name: Iris kemaonensis
Family: Iridaceae

Found in the alpine meadows of the Himalayas at elevations of 3,000–4,000 metres, the Himalayan Iris is an elegant perennial with rhizomatous roots. Its tall stems bear stunning lilac to deep purple blossoms from April to June, making it one of the most graceful flowers of the region.

Himalayan Bellflower

Botanical Name: Campanula latifolia
Family: Campanulaceae (Bellflower family)

This perennial herb grows wild across the Himalayan region from Kashmir to Nepal. It produces large, pendulous, deep blue-purple bells arranged on tall spikes. Found between 2,000–3,500 metres, it flowers during the summer months.

Himalayan Lantern

Botanical Name: Agapetes serpens
Family: Ericaceae (Rhododendron family)

This charming shrub, 40–60 cm in height, is known for its slender arching stems and tiny lantern-shaped blossoms. The flowers—shades of red, orange, or pinkish white—often display dark zig-zag markings. It thrives in the Northeastern Himalayas, especially Darjeeling and Sikkim, flowering between May and June.

A Commitment to Conservation

Through these commemorative stamps on Wild Flowers of India, the Department of Posts reaffirms its dedication to preserving the nation’s botanical heritage. Each stamp serves as a reminder of the rich biodiversity thriving across India—and of the collective responsibility to protect it for future generations.