Question 1

What is Bulbostylis barbata ssp. barbata?

Accepted Answer

Bulbostylis barbata ssp. barbata is a small annual sedge in the family Cyperaceae, native to tropical and subtropical regions including Sri Lanka. It is catalogued as part of the island's ayurvedic medicinal plant heritage. The subspecies name 'barbata' refers to the bearded or hair-like structures on its spikelets.

Question 2

Where is Bulbostylis barbata found in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The plant grows mainly in Sri Lanka's dry and intermediate climatic zones, favouring open, sun-exposed ground with poor or sandy soils. It is commonly found along roadsides, paddy field margins, and on laterite outcrops in the North Central and Northern provinces. It is less prevalent in the wetter, forested regions of the southwest.

Question 3

Is Bulbostylis barbata ssp. barbata used in ayurvedic medicine?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is included in Sri Lanka's catalogue of ayurvedic medicinal plants. Ethnobotanical records across South and Southeast Asia suggest the plant has been used in traditional preparations for skin conditions and minor inflammatory complaints. Formal pharmacological research on this subspecies remains limited, so traditional uses should always be discussed with a qualified ayurvedic practitioner.

Question 4

Which plant family does Bulbostylis barbata belong to?

Accepted Answer

It belongs to the Cyperaceae family, commonly known as the sedge family. Sedges differ from grasses primarily in having triangular rather than round or flattened stems, and their floral and fruit structures differ from those of true grasses. The genus Bulbostylis includes around 150 species worldwide.

Question 5

What habitats does Bulbostylis barbata prefer in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

This species favours open, disturbed habitats with well-drained, often nutrient-poor soils — including roadsides, field margins, tank bunds, and sandy or lateritic clearings. It thrives in full sun and is adapted to seasonally dry conditions, making it most common in Sri Lanka's dry zone.

Question 6

Is this plant endemic to Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

No, Bulbostylis barbata ssp. barbata is a widespread species distributed across tropical Africa, Asia, and Australia. While Sri Lanka's flora contains a high proportion of endemic plants, this particular sedge is not among them. Its presence in Sri Lanka reflects a broader pantropical distribution typical of open-habitat pioneer species.

Question 7

How does Bulbostylis barbata ssp. barbata contribute ecologically?

Accepted Answer

As a pioneer species, it helps stabilise bare or disturbed soil and adds organic matter, paving the way for other plants. Its seeds provide food for small granivorous birds and its flowers attract insects. In dry-zone ecosystems it forms part of the ground-layer plant community alongside taller scrub and tree species.