Official UPSC Format

Consider the following statements about Rhynchostylis retusa (Foxtail orchid) :
1. It is an epiphytic orchid.
2. The species is endemic to North-east India.
3. It is the State flower of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct ?

1. It is an epiphytic orchid.

2. The species is endemic to North-east India.

3. It is the State flower of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.

⚡ Quick Recall Snippet

Rhynchostylis retusa, commonly known as the Foxtail orchid, is an epiphytic plant that grows on tree trunks. While highly culturally significant in Northeast India—serving as the state flower of Assam (Kopou Phool) and Arunachal Pradesh—it is not endemic to the region, holding a wide native distribution across Tropical Asia.

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Detailed Solution & Authority Citations

Correct Answer is Option B
Let us evaluate the botanical and cultural profile of Rhynchostylis retusa (Foxtail orchid) based on Botanical Survey of India data:
  • Statement 1 is Correct: The Foxtail orchid is a classic epiphyte. It grows harmlessly upon the trunks and branches of other trees for physical support, drawing its moisture and nutrients from the humid air and rain, rather than being rooted in soil or acting as a parasite.

  • Statement 2 is Incorrect: While highly prominent in the Northeast, the species is not endemic (restricted solely) to that region. It enjoys a massive, wide native distribution across Tropical Asia, encompassing China, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, the Philippines, and even other Indian states like Odisha and the Andaman Islands.

  • Statement 3 is Correct: Culturally, the flower is immensely significant. Known locally as Kopou Phool in Assam, it is an integral ornament in traditional Bihu dance attire. Consequently, it has been officially declared the State flower of both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
    • Conclusion: Statements 1 and 3 accurately describe the plant.

    🚨 The Examiner's Trap

    The examiner preys on regional association. Because the flower is famously the State Flower of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, candidates naturally (but falsely) assume it is 'endemic' (exclusively restricted) to that specific region, forgetting it grows all across Southeast Asia.

    Active Recall Flashcard

    Tap to Flip

    Which epiphytic orchid, locally known as Kopou Phool, is the official state flower of both Assam and Arunachal Pradesh?

    The Foxtail Orchid (Rhynchostylis retusa).

    Concept Flow Mapping

    Foxtail Orchid
    Is State Flower Of
    Assam
    Foxtail Orchid
    Is State Flower Of
    Arunachal Pradesh
    Foxtail Orchid
    Possesses Trait
    Epiphytic

    Logic Quest

    "What does it mean that the orchid is 'epiphytic'?"

    Not analyzing core concepts like Botanical Distribution and Cultural Significance through the lens of Previous Year Questions is a serious miss-out. This PYQ engine is specifically designed to help you decode the examiner's mindset and master highly probable Environment & Ecology questions for your upcoming Prelims.