'Everything beautiful is imbued with a touch a danger’
Many a times, one loses themselves in the frondescence of the Nilgiris, the gift of the Western Ghats. It has even been mentioned in the Sangam age literature, Silappadigaram. It had greatly developed during the British period and is a modern day tourist location.
In recent times, the Nilgiris have been affected by the spread of foreign seeds, which are gradually destroying the forests of the region. Seeds such as that of Zucchini Karuvela eventually reduce the soil fertility.
Similarly, Scottish Broom, a beautiful Yellow blossom, is a great threat to the region. It was brought into the Nilgiris during the British stay here. It was used for decorative purposes. It is a plant with the ability to seep in the nutrition of other plants which makes it difficult for even grass to grow. This wrecks the food chain of animal and decreases the rain water level as well. It is most commonly found in the areas of Avalanchi, Upper Bavani and Lakkudi.
According Botanical researchers, Scottish broom reduces the water available during droughts, as it absorbs any water source found. Hence, along with Cikai, Casaurins and Camphor, the forest department must snip the Scottish Broom from the Nilgiris, in order to preserve this beauteous blessing.