Two genera and eight species of rattan are estimated to be found in Nepal- Calamus tenuis, C. leptospadix, C. acanthospathus, C. erectus, C. gracilis, C. inermis, C. khasianus, C. latifolius  and Plectocomia himalayana.

Rattan has both social and economic value to the Nepalese. They are being used mainly for furniture items such as chair, sofa, book cases, television stands, baby carriers, baskets and mats. Rattan is an excellent material for walking sticks, and rope to drag logs. In addition, people do eat ripe rattan fruits and use it for decorating their homes. Apart from its economic value it also has religious significance. For example, rattan are required for binding together the chariot of Rato Machendranath, a deity, specially known for the prosperity of the country. Lamas, an ethnic group from the Mountains of Nepal use rattan in their religious works. Rattan is also preserved around the temples.

External Links

• Bamboo & Rattan Development in Nepal