Supreme Court Considers Nationwide Ban on Conocarpus Tree

On September 17, 2025, the Supreme Court took up the matter of banning the fast-growing exotic tree species Conocarpus, commonly used for green landscaping in cities across India. The court has now sought a response from the Union government by October 8 on the recommendation made by the Central Empowered Committee (CEC), a court-appointed statutory body.

The CEC, in a report submitted last month, has flagged significant ecological and public health concerns related to the proliferation of Conocarpus. The committee noted that the species, also known as buttonwood or damas, has become abundant in several states, including Delhi, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. The CEC cited the tree's tolerance to heat, salinity, air, and dust pollution as the primary reasons for its widespread adoption in urban areas.

However, the CEC has recommended a ban on further planting or removal of Conocarpus, stating that the species leads to the alteration of local ecosystems, excessive groundwater consumption, and potentially poses risks to public health due to its allergenic pollen. The panel also observed that the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (2024-30) lacks a nationally coordinated mechanism for monitoring and regulating invasive alien species.

In response, the Union government has assured the court that the issue is being considered on a pan-India basis, and it will file its response by the given deadline. The matter is scheduled to be heard again on October 8.