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UPSC Prelims 2026 · Environment · Species Watch
Consider the following statements about Rhynchostylis retusa (Foxtail orchid): Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- It is an epiphytic orchid.
- The species is endemic to North-east India.
- It is the State flower of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 1 and 3
- (c) 2 and 3
- (d) 3 only
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: (b) 1 and 3
Epiphytic and the State flower of Assam and Arunachal; not endemic.
Statement by statement
1. ✓ CORRECT It grows on tree trunks and branches.
2. ✗ WRONG It is widespread across South and South-East Asia (including peninsular India and Sri Lanka), so not endemic to the North-East.
3. ✓ CORRECT Known as Kopou phool in Assam (worn during Bihu) — the State flower of Assam and Arunachal.
The idea
Being the State flower of two north-eastern States does not make a plant endemic to the North-East. “Endemic” means found there and nowhere else. The foxtail orchid grows across India and South-East Asia.
Grows on tree branches (epiphyte) → Thick hanging roots take moisture from the air → Long drooping spray of pink-white flowers → Looks like a fox’s tail
The trap
Being a State flower of two NE States makes “endemic to the North-East” feel natural.
Also know
In Assam it is called kopou phool; it flowers around Bohag Bihu and women wear it in their hair during the dance. The North-East is the richest region of India for orchids, and Arunachal Pradesh has an orchid sanctuary at Sessa.
🔒 Foxtail orchid (Kopou phool): epiphyte, State flower of Assam & Arunachal, widespread in Asia.
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