Native Trees of Kodagu

Nestled in the cradle of the majestic Western Ghats, Kodagu stands as a living testament to India’s sylvan splendour — a land where nature, culture, and spirituality intertwine in perfect harmony. Draped in endless shades of green, nearly 80% of Kodagu’s terrain is blanketed by forests, coffee plantations, and ancient groves, forming one of the richest ecosystems in southern India. This lush expanse is not merely a geographical feature but a living sanctuary, sustained by centuries of reverence for nature’s divine presence.

At the heart of this ecological abundance are the sacred groves, locally known as Deva Kaad,, which embody the Kodava people’s deep spiritual and environmental consciousness. These groves are believed to be the abodes of guardian deities and ancestral spirits, where no tree may be felled and no soil disturbed. Each Deva Kaad is a self-sustaining microcosm — a refuge for countless species of trees, herbs, creepers, and wildlife. They stand as ancient examples of community-led conservation, demonstrating how faith and ecology can coexist to preserve biodiversity through generations.

A comprehensive botanical catalog of Kodagu meticulously records this verdant legacy, documenting native and cultivated species that define the region’s landscape. The earliest known plant collection dates back to 1862, when Capt. Munroe and Capt. Gough began the scientific study of Kodagu’s flora. Their groundbreaking efforts led to the publication of two significant works — “Useful Plants” and “Timber Trees of India” — which laid the foundation for future botanical research in the region.

Today, these records continue to highlight Kodagu’s ecological importance, inspiring conservation efforts and environmental awareness. The district remains a living laboratory of biodiversity, where ancient reverence and modern science meet, ensuring that the forests of Kodagu — and the sacred groves that guard them — endure as symbols of balance, devotion, and natural wisdom.

Non Fruit bearing trees

1. Ara mara
2. Arali mara/ Ara Chittaal mara
3. Bairi mara
4. Bangi mara
5. Balanji mara
6. Bilvar mara
7. Bodde mara
8. Bollandi ( Nandi)
9. Chattuva mara
10. Cheeni Pale
11. Cheepe mara
12. Cheria ger
13. Golimara
14. Godha mara
15. Kaad kaapi
16. Kaadger mara
17. Kabba mara
18. Karadi mara
19. Kumbli mara
20. Kerolchi
21. Maleger
22. Malekakkade
23. Nayibende
24. Neeli Mara
25. Noga mara
26. Paare mara
27. Povvali mara
28. Poopadri
29. Powli
30. Slate mathi
31. Thyale mara
32. Tadale mara
33. Uppate mara
34. Yeth taega

Fruit Bearing Trees

1. Ammepann mara
2. Athi pann mara
3. Banduli 
4. Boonake mara
5. Chekke mara
6. Chipli pan mara
7. Ger mara
8. Kothri pann mara
9. Kumbli mara
10. Lakkote pan mara
11. Nellige mara
12. Poon mara
13. Pulichekke
14. Ramphala
15. Tadachi mara
16. Yechimara