By W Rorrkychand Singh
One of the pride of Manipur, Samban-Lei-Sekpil (Duranta repens L), that entered the Guinness Book of Records, is currently at a dilapidated state.
In a recent visit , it was found that; one-third portion of the plant had been eaten by insects and cut off.
It’s unfortunate, that the person who brought up the fencing plant to a height of 61 ft at his own expenses and dedication abandoned the plant at his residence at Sayang Kurao Makhong and returned to his native place, Kumbi.
It’s believed that, repeatedly the state govt. made him disappointed with false promises to provide protection for the plant, a dejected Moirangthem Okendra, abandoned the plant and decided never to turn up again.
Here are some facts about Samban-Lei Sekpil ( Duranta repens L):
Botanical name: Duranta repens L.
Cultivar: Variegata
Manipuri name: Samban-lei Mana Arangba
Place of Plantation: Kumbi
Planting year: 1981
Experiment started year: 1983
National record (Limca Book of Records): 18 Nov 1992 (at the height of 6 m (20 ft), with 11 steps)
World record (Guinness Book of Records): 26 Nov 1999 (at the height of 15 m (50 ft), with 35 steps)
Present height: 18.6 m (61 ft)
Topiary steps: 44
Present Address: Sayang Kurao Makhong, Imphal, Manipur- 795001
