Agroforestry potential of Gnetum gnemon L. with special reference to Mizoram (Northeast India): A review

Abstract

Gnetum gnemon L., a member of Gnetaceae, is a culturally important and underutilized multipurpose tree native to parts of Northeast India and widely distributed across Southeast Asia. Its edible young leaves and reproductive structures, nutritive seeds and minor timber utility make it a promising component of agroforestry systems that aim to enhance food security, nutritional quality and landscape restoration. In Mizoram, where Gnetum (locally known as pelh) is recorded in agro ecological and ethnobotanical surveys, the species occurs as scattered shrubs and treelets in humid forests, village groves and homestead environments, and is widely consumed as a wild leafy vegetable by tribal communities. This review synthesizes available literature from Northeast India and comparable Southeast Asian contexts to examine the species in relation to ecology, propagation methods, cultivation practices, agroforestry roles including improved fallows, living trellises, boundary plantings and shade components, as well as nutritional value, market potential, conservation needs and policy considerations. The assessment highlights key silvicultural requirements and major constraints, including propagation barriers, limited market access and tenure related challenges, in addition to identifying significant research gaps. These gaps include the need for systematic trials on intercropping performance, growth and yield responses under varying canopy conditions, improved post-harvest handling and socioeconomic evaluations specific to Mizoram’s smallholder farming systems. Drawing on the evidence base, priority actions are proposed for scaling G. gnemon within agroforestry models that are locally appropriate and capable of balancing livelihood benefits with long term in situ conservation.