A New Orchid Named After Kalimpong Botanist Dr. Rajendra Yonzone: A Tribute to Dedication and Discovery
Kalimpong, August 28, 2025 — In an exciting development for the botanical world, a new orchid species has been officially named after Kalimpong’s very own Dr. Rajendra Yonzone, a distinguished botanist known for his work in the Eastern Himalayas. The species, Zeuxine yonzoneana, was discovered by Dr. Yonzone in October 2017 in the Samalbong area of Kalimpong, a region renowned for its rich biodiversity. The orchid’s pale yellowish-white flowers and unique characteristics have now earned it a place in the scientific community, with its discovery published in the prestigious journal Phytotaxa.
A Discovery to Remember
Dr. Yonzone, a dedicated botanist and educator at Victoria Institution (College) in Kolkata, has spent the past two decades exploring the flora of the Eastern Himalayas. In 2017, while conducting research in the Samalbong area of Kalimpong, he stumbled upon the delicate, 14 cm tall orchid, which he later identified as a completely new species. With its pale yellowish-white flowers, Zeuxine yonzoneana stands out for its striking appearance and its previously undocumented features, making it a significant find in the world of plant taxonomy.
This discovery is not just a personal milestone for Dr. Yonzone but also a testament to the rich and often overlooked biodiversity of the Eastern Himalayas. For years, the region has been a treasure trove for botanists and environmentalists, with its unique ecosystem home to thousands of species yet to be fully studied.
The Importance of the Eastern Himalayas
The Eastern Himalayas are known for being one of the most biodiverse and fragile regions in the world. The diverse flora and fauna that thrive in the high altitudes of this region have long attracted the attention of scientists. However, many areas remain underexplored, and new species continue to be discovered with each research expedition. The discovery of Zeuxine yonzoneana only adds to our understanding of the region’s immense botanical wealth, but it also highlights the urgent need to preserve these ecosystems, which are increasingly threatened by climate change and human encroachment.
Experts believe that Zeuxine yonzoneana could hold untapped ecological or medicinal potential, though much about it remains to be understood. In the past, numerous plants from the region have contributed to medical advancements, and scientists are optimistic about the future research possibilities for this new orchid. Its discovery emphasizes the importance of protecting these fragile environments to ensure that future generations can continue to study and benefit from them.
Dr. Rajendra Yonzone: A Life Devoted to Science
Dr. Rajendra Yonzone’s journey in botany is a story of passion, perseverance, and commitment to the natural world. Born and raised in Kalimpong, he developed an early fascination with plants, which led him to pursue a career in botany. Despite his academic success and position as an assistant professor at Victoria Institution (College), Kolkata, Dr. Yonzone has always maintained a deep connection with the forests and flora of his hometown.
His work focuses on documenting and preserving the rich plant life of the Eastern Himalayas, a region that is both ecologically significant and culturally rich. For nearly two decades, Dr. Yonzone has dedicated himself to exploring the remote forests, often venturing alone, in search of new plant species, medicinal herbs, and aromatic plants that are central to local traditions.
Dr. Yonzone’s discoveries have earned him national recognition, and his contributions to the field of botany are celebrated not only in Kalimpong but across India. His dedication to scientific research has been a source of inspiration for many young researchers and students, proving that even individuals from small towns can make a profound impact in the global scientific community.
A Lasting Legacy
The naming of Zeuxine yonzoneana is a fitting tribute to Dr. Yonzone’s dedication and years of hard work. The orchid now carries his surname, ensuring that his contribution to the scientific community will be remembered for generations to come. This honor is a rare achievement for a botanist, and it is especially significant given Dr. Yonzone’s roots in a small, often overlooked region.
In his statement after the discovery was officially published, Dr. Yonzone expressed his gratitude to the research community and his admiration for the team at Phytotaxa for recognizing his work. “This orchid is not just a reflection of my efforts, but also a symbol of the rich natural heritage of Kalimpong and the Eastern Himalayas,” he said. “I hope that this discovery inspires others to explore the biodiversity around them and understand the importance of conserving it.”
Dr. Yonzone’s story is an inspiring one — it serves as a reminder that passion and dedication can lead to groundbreaking discoveries, no matter where you come from. His work continues to motivate young researchers, especially those in remote areas, to pursue their dreams in science and contribute to the world’s collective knowledge.
Looking Ahead
With Zeuxine yonzoneana now officially named and recognized, the next step for Dr. Yonzone and the global scientific community will be to study its ecological and medicinal properties further. As researchers continue to explore the Eastern Himalayas, it is likely that more species, similar to Zeuxine yonzoneana, will be uncovered, contributing to our understanding of this incredibly diverse region.
For now, Zeuxine yonzoneana stands as a testament to the power of passion-driven research, the importance of biodiversity conservation, and the enduring impact one individual can have on global science. Dr. Yonzone’s journey is a source of pride for Kalimpong, and his legacy in botany will be remembered for years to come.
