Thysanolaena latifolia (Roxb. ex Hornem.) Honda as natural resource and product for the tribals of Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract

Thysanolaena latifolia (Roxb. ex Hornem.) Honda, popularly known as tiger or broom grass is one among the non-timber forest products gathered by the tribals of Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh. The study documented the process of making brooms and its economic viability. The brooms made using these plants are an important seasonal livelihood for the local people. T. latifolia can be grown in a wide range of agro-climatic conditions and soils up to 2,000 m above the sea level. It grows easily on shady slopes, damp and steep river banks, degraded areas and gravelly soil on weathered rock surfaces. The study recommends cultivation of broom grass on a large scale as an effective source for income generation in tribal areas of Andhra Pradesh.