Gymnosperms of Nepal: Diversity, Distribution, Economic Importance, and Future Perspectives

Nepal has a total of 29 taxa of wild gymnosperms from 26 species, seven families, and 11 genera. Juniperus L. is the largest genera with six taxa, followed by Ephedra L. with four taxa. Similarly, there are 18 taxa of cultivated gymnosperms in Nepal, which belong to seven families and 14 genera. Here, we used different phytogeographic regions to show the distribution pattern of gymnosperms in Nepal. The central phytogeographic region has the most gymnosperm species, while the western phytogeographic region has the least species. Gymnosperms grow in a variety of habitats; however, they are primarily adapted to higher elevations. As long as gymnosperms are used for commercial purposes in Nepal, several species are always at continuous risk. All gymnosperms found in Nepal are on the International Union for Conservation of Nature’s (IUCN) threatened species list. In addition, we discussed the economic significance of wild gymnosperms, including their medicinal uses. Lastly, we highlighted the recent development in gymnosperm research and underlined the need for ongoing study in areas such as biogeography, dendrochronology, functional traits, and effects of climate change in its distribution. It is expected that this chapter will serve as a basis for future studies of gymnosperms, especially in Nepal and the Himalayan region.