Question 1

What is Acampe ochracea used for in ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

Acampe ochracea is listed in Sri Lanka's catalogue of ayurvedic medicinal plants and is associated in broader South Asian ethnobotanical literature with uses related to joint and musculoskeletal conditions. Specific traditional preparations vary by practitioner and region. Any medicinal use should be guided by a qualified ayurvedic physician.

Question 2

Is Acampe ochracea an orchid?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Acampe ochracea belongs to the family Orchidaceae. It is an epiphytic orchid, meaning it grows anchored to the bark of trees rather than in soil. Its flowers are typically small and carry ochre or yellow tones, which give the species its name.

Question 3

Where does Acampe ochracea grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Acampe ochracea is found in lowland and mid-elevation tropical forests in Sri Lanka, particularly in areas with higher rainfall and mature tree cover. It grows as an epiphyte on tree branches and is associated with the wet and intermediate zones of the island.

Question 4

Is Acampe ochracea endemic to Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Acampe ochracea is not strictly endemic to Sri Lanka — related populations are found across South Asia, including India. However, Sri Lanka's geographic isolation has contributed to significant biodiversity variation, and the species is a documented part of the island's native flora.

Question 5

How many orchid species are native to Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Sri Lanka is home to well over 150 native orchid species, reflecting the island's status as a global biodiversity hotspot. Many of these are epiphytic species found in undisturbed forest habitats across the wet zone and central highlands.

Question 6

Where can I see native orchids in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The Royal Botanic Gardens at Peradeniya maintain significant orchid collections, including native species. Forest walks in protected areas such as Sinharaja and the cloud forests of the central highlands also offer opportunities to observe epiphytic orchids in their natural habitat, ideally with a naturalist guide.

Question 7

What does the name Acampe ochracea mean?

Accepted Answer

The genus name Acampe is derived from Greek, meaning rigid or inflexible, referring to the plant's stout, firm stems. The species epithet ochracea comes from the Latin word for ochre, describing the yellowish-brown colouring of the flowers.