A new plant species named Koenigia arunachalensis has been discovered in the alpine region of Tawang by a collaborative research team from CSIR-North East Institute of Science and Technology (CSIR-NEIST), Jorhat, and Uppsala University, Sweden.

Belonging to the Polygonaceae family, the newly identified herb is distinguished by its erect, hairy stems, lanceolate leaves, and clusters of white flowers with dark purplish centers. The species blooms between July and October.

The discovery underscores the rich and largely unexplored biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas. The research was led by Dr. Pankaj Bharali, with contributions from PhD scholar Bipankar Hajong and Swedish botanist Dr. Magnus Lidén.

Scientists have highlighted the finding as a significant step in plant taxonomy and conservation efforts in the region.