Question 1

What family does Plecospermum spinosum belong to?

Accepted Answer

Plecospermum spinosum belongs to the family Moraceae, which also includes figs, breadfruit, and mulberries. It is the only species in the genus Plecospermum and is found across parts of tropical Asia, including Sri Lanka.

Question 2

What is Plecospermum spinosum used for in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

In traditional Sri Lankan Ayurvedic practice, parts of the plant — particularly the bark and roots — are used in compound formulations associated with anti-inflammatory, wound-healing, and fever-management applications. These are traditional uses; clinical evidence is limited, and it should not replace medical treatment.

Question 3

Where can Plecospermum spinosum be found in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The plant grows primarily in Sri Lanka's dry and intermediate zones, in scrub forest, rocky margins, and secondary woodland areas. It is not common in the wet zone rainforests of the southwest.

Question 4

Is Plecospermum spinosum endemic to Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

No, it is not endemic. Plecospermum spinosum has a broader distribution across tropical Asia. However, it is documented as part of Sri Lanka's official catalogue of Ayurvedic medicinal plants.

Question 5

How is Plecospermum spinosum identified in the wild?

Accepted Answer

It is typically a thorny shrub or small tree with stout spines on its branches, simple alternate leaves, and small globose fruits. The distinctive spines are the most reliable field identification feature.

Question 6

Is Plecospermum spinosum a threatened species?

Accepted Answer

It is not currently classified as critically threatened, largely because it tolerates disturbed habitats and secondary vegetation. Pressure from agricultural expansion and habitat conversion in the dry zone remains a long-term concern for dry zone flora more broadly.

Question 7

How does Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic plant catalogue work?

Accepted Answer

The Sri Lanka Department of Ayurveda maintains an official register of medicinal plants recognised under the Ayurvedic system. Plants are assigned reference codes and documented with botanical descriptions and traditional uses. Plecospermum spinosum carries the reference code LK94006135 in the Lakpura catalogue.