We are all aware of how the Indian Subcontinent was colonised by ‘outsiders’ who eventually were forced to leave. But do you know in the plant world too, non-native plants entered our country, only to never leave? Highlighting this aspect of the flora world are Bengaluru-based Biodiversity Collaborative and Nature Conservation Foundation by co-publishing and releasing a book, aptly named Guests Who Never Left (R350). The book has been co-authored by RS Reshnu Raj, AP Madhavan, TR Shankar Raman, Divya Mudappa, Anita Varghese, and Ankila J Hiremath; all of whom are ecologists, conservationists and scientists.  

“India has had a long history dating back to the colonial period of introducing plant species, sometimes accidentally or purposefully, from different parts of the world. A small number even arrived unintentionally, like Congress grass, whose seeds are believed to have reached our shores in a shipment of imported wheat,” says Aditi Sajwan of Biodiversity Collaborative, who has provided editorial and outreach support for the book, adding that there are as many as 2,503 plant species in India that have come from elsewhere, collectively known as ‘alien plants’. Even today, they attract people with their vibrant colours, striking shapes, and exotic origins, adorning gardens and backyards.