The need to promote local biodiversity over a fast-growing exotic tree
In many Indian cities, Conocarpus trees have been planted along roadsides, in residential complexes, industrial areas and public spaces to increase green cover rapidly. Their ability to grow with minimal maintenance and tolerate heat and other adverse conditions has made them popular for urban landscaping. However, concerns are now growing about their ecological role, potential health effects and possible impact on infrastructure.
Environmental experts say that simply increasing the number of trees in cities is not enough. It is equally important to select the right species and assess how beneficial they are to the local environment and biodiversity.
Where Does Conocarpus Originate?
According to the Plants of the World Online database of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, the natural range of Conocarpus erectus extends from southern Florida to parts of Central and South America, as well as tropical western Africa. It is recorded as an introduced species in India.
The exact year in which it was first introduced into India is unclear. However, its presence has become increasingly noticeable in several cities over the past decade. The species gained popularity through tree-planting and urban greening programmes in Gujarat and Telangana.
Environmental activist Dipani Sutaria has spoken about observing Conocarpus being planted extensively in Ahmedabad around 2016. Its use also increased in Telangana during the Haritha Haram programme, launched in 2015. However, according to available reports, its spread was not the result of a single government decision; local authorities, private institutions and individuals also planted it.
What Could Be Its Impact on Local Biodiversity?
One of the major concerns surrounding Conocarpus is that planting a single exotic species over large areas may reduce the diversity of native trees and the organisms associated with them.
Native trees have evolved over long periods in association with local climatic and ecological conditions. They provide food, shelter and breeding opportunities for many native birds, butterflies, bees and other organisms. In contrast, the excessive dominance of a single fast-growing species may limit the resources available to local plants and wildlife.
Environmental activist Jasmit Singh Arora told The Indian Express that he was concerned about chemicals released by Conocarpus leaves and their potential effects on the growth of local vegetation.
However, it is important to distinguish between expert concerns and effects supported by extensive scientific evidence. More systematic research is needed to understand the long-term ecological impact of Conocarpus in India.
Can Its Roots Damage Roads and Pipelines?
Concerns have been raised that Conocarpus roots may spread around underground pipelines, sewer systems and other structures in search of water.
In general, tree roots can enter cracks and weak joints in water pipes, potentially causing blockages or worsening existing damage. Tree roots can also affect pavements and roads.
However, this problem is not exclusive to Conocarpus. The roots of large trees such as peepal and banyan can also damage buildings or underground infrastructure if the trees are planted in unsuitable locations.
Therefore, the solution is not simply to remove one species. Urban tree planting should take into account the tree’s mature size, root spread, available space and the location of underground utilities.
Can Conocarpus Pollen Cause Asthma and Allergies?
Health concerns have also been raised about Conocarpus pollen. Some studies conducted in Iran and other parts of the Middle East have reported allergic responses to its pollen.
However, these findings cannot automatically be applied to the entire Indian population. Some studies have involved patients who already had respiratory allergies, while sufficient direct research on the allergenic effects of Conocarpus pollen in India is not yet available.
It is therefore more accurate to say that the potential risk of allergies warrants investigation, but the extent of its impact in India remains unclear. Scientific assessments of pollen, local health conditions and other environmental factors should be considered when selecting trees for public spaces.
Has the Government Advised Against Planting Conocarpus?
The issue is no longer limited to the opinions of individual environmentalists.
According to a report published by Mongabay India on 20 July 2026, in August 2025 the Central Government advised states and Union Territories to stop new plantations of Conocarpus erectus and Conocarpus lancifolius, based on a report by the Central Empowered Committee (CEC). The report referred to ecological and public health concerns.
Mongabay India also reported that restrictive orders concerning Conocarpus plantations had been issued in Gujarat, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The species has also been the subject of administrative and judicial discussions in Karnataka.
An important distinction must be made here: a Central Government advisory and a legally binding state-level ban are not the same thing. The relevant government notification must be examined to establish the precise scope of any restriction in a particular state.
Why Could Neem, Peepal, Banyan and Mango Be Better Alternatives?
Experts recommend prioritising species suited to local environmental conditions. Trees such as neem, mango, peepal and banyan can provide shade, food and shelter for wildlife in many parts of India.
- Neem: Adapted to many Indian regions, it provides shade and can grow with relatively little maintenance once established.
- Mango: Its fruit and branches provide food and shelter for birds and other wildlife.
- Peepal: This large tree provides food and shelter for a variety of organisms.
- Banyan: Its extensive canopy and branches offer valuable shelter for birds and other wildlife.
Nevertheless, not every native tree is suitable for every roadside or small park. Large trees such as peepal and banyan require adequate space. Species selection should therefore be based on local climate, soil conditions, water availability, road width, distance from buildings and maintenance requirements.
Conclusion: Healthy Ecosystems Matter More Than Green Cover Alone
The debate over Conocarpus offers a broader lesson for Indian cities. The objective of urban tree planting should not be limited to increasing green cover rapidly. Cities should choose species that support local biodiversity, provide adequate shade, suit available water conditions and can coexist safely with urban infrastructure.
Achieving this requires a scientific tree-planting policy developed through collaboration among local botanists, urban planners, forest departments and citizens.
The right tree, planted in the right place, does more than make a city greener. It helps make the city more liveable, biodiverse and environmentally sustainable.
Key References
- The Indian Express, “Why experts are urging cities to replace Conocarpus with neem, peepal and banyan”, 19 September 2026.
- Mongabay India, “Why is Conocarpus being banned across states? [Explainer]”, 20 July 2026.
- Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew — Plants of the World Online, “Conocarpus erectus L.”
