ECONOMIC AND FRUIT PLANTS OF SHAWAR VALLEY

Shawar is a dazzling valley of pristine forest and decent meadows situated in Tehsil Matta, Hindu Raj Ranges, District Swat. The study was conducted in 2004 to screen out and analyze precious and economically important plants of the area. The current study based on 145 species, belonging to 55 families, representing Pteridophytes, Angiosperms, and Gymnosperms. It was found that 66 plant species are utilized for medicinal, timber, fuel wood, fodder, ornamental, agricultural tools, and fruit yielding purposes. Out of which, 4 major cash crops i.e. Diospyros kaki L (Persimmons) Malus pumila Mill (Apples) Prunus persica L (Peeches) and Pyrus commusis L (Pears) annually produce a total annual income of PK.Rs.4, 10,20,600, (Rs. 41 millions,20 thousands and six hundreds ). Horticulture is commonly practiced in the area. Out of its total land area, 60 % are used for horticulture purposes and hold by orchids of Apples, Peaches, Persimmons and Pears. In the present study an attempt has been made to document the indigenous knowledge of local people about plants and threats to the sustainable use of wild and economic plants of the area.