Diversity and Distribution of Urban Flora in Visakhapatnam City, Andhra Pradesh, India
Author : G Narayana Murthy
Abstract :
Urban vegetation plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance, improving environmental quality, and enhancing the quality of life in rapidly expanding cities. Visakhapatnam City, a major coastal urban center in Andhra Pradesh, India, exhibits diverse urban flora due to its unique geographical location, tropical climate, and planned green initiatives. The present study documents and analyzes the plant species grown in Visakhapatnam urban area, including residential colonies, roadsides, parks, institutional campuses, and public spaces. Field surveys were conducted during 2024–2025 to record ornamental, avenue, medicinal, edible and other plant species commonly grown in the city. A total of 26 dominantly grown plant species belonging to 19 families were recorded, with representation from Fabaceae, Arecaceae, Apocynaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Poaceae, etc. Trees constituted the largest growth form, followed by shrubs, herbs, climbers, and grasses. The study highlights the ecological, aesthetic, and socio-economic importance of urban plants in Visakhapatnam and emphasizes the need for sustainable urban greening strategies to mitigate pollution, urban heat effects, and biodiversity loss. The findings provide baseline data useful for urban planners, environmentalists, and policymakers involved in sustainable city development.
Keywords :
Urban Flora, Visakhapatnam, Ornamental Plants, Avenue Trees, Urban Ecology.
