Introduction to Jimbu

Two species of Allium, family Amaryllidaceae (Allium hypsistum Stearn and A. przewalskianum Regel) are known as Jimbu in Nepal. Both species are perennial herbs growing in clumps. A well drained sandy soil of high arid region is the growing habitat of both species. The above ground parts of these species are used as spices and medicines in rural households in Nepal.

A. hypsistum grows in the central Nepal north of the main Himalayan range and adjoining the Tibetan plateau. Its reticulately fibrous bulb-coats, 4 to 6 narrow linear leaves, very short pedicels, slightly dentate tepals and simple included filaments together distinguish it from other Himalayan species. It has been recorded at about 4 miles south- west of Saldanggaon (29o18’ N, 83o05’ E) at about 5500 m a.s.l. altitude in north-central Nepal. Flowering occurs from July to August. This species is endemic to Nepal.

A. przewalskianum species can be recognized by its bright-red finely reticulate bulb-coat, narrow leaves and small purplish flowers with protruding stamens, the inner three filaments having a broad oblong base with a tooth on each side at the top, and a slender upper part, while the three outer filaments are subulate. It has been recorded in Damodar Kunda area (4200 m a.s.l.) in north-central Nepal. Flowering occurs from July to August. The species is considered as vulnerable in regard to its conservation status.