Question 1

What is Cyathocalyx zeylanica?

Accepted Answer

Cyathocalyx zeylanica is an endemic tree species belonging to the Annonaceae family, found only in Sri Lanka. It grows in the humid lowland and submontane rainforests of the island's wet zone and is documented as a medicinal plant in Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic tradition.

Question 2

What is Cyathocalyx zeylanica used for in Ayurvedic medicine?

Accepted Answer

The species is catalogued within Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic medicinal plant records, where various parts of related Annonaceae trees have traditionally been used for their potential therapeutic properties related to fevers, inflammation, and skin conditions. Formal pharmacological research on this specific species remains limited.

Question 3

Where does Cyathocalyx zeylanica grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

It is found in the wet-zone lowland and submontane forests of Sri Lanka. Protected areas such as Sinharaja Forest Reserve represent the type of habitat where this endemic understory tree survives, as it requires humid, shaded forest conditions.

Question 4

Is Cyathocalyx zeylanica endangered?

Accepted Answer

As a narrow-range endemic restricted to Sri Lanka's wet-zone forests, the species faces indirect pressure from ongoing habitat loss outside protected reserves. Lowland rainforest conversion for agriculture and development has reduced available habitat, making conservation of existing protected forest areas critical for the survival of species like this.

Question 5

How many endemic plant species does Sri Lanka have?

Accepted Answer

Around 23% of Sri Lanka's flowering plant species are endemic, a remarkably high proportion for an island of its size. This endemism reflects the island's long geographic isolation and diverse ecological zones, from coastal lowlands to montane cloud forests.

Question 6

Can tourists visit places in Sri Lanka to learn about traditional Ayurvedic plants?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Sri Lanka has numerous Ayurvedic treatment centres, herbal gardens, and spice farms open to visitors, particularly in the Kandy and Matale regions. Guided walks in protected rainforests with qualified naturalists also offer opportunities to observe medicinal plants in their natural habitat.

Question 7

Is it legal to collect plant specimens from Sri Lankan forests?

Accepted Answer

Wild collection of plant specimens from Sri Lanka's forests is regulated under national law, and collecting endemic species without the appropriate research permits is prohibited. Visitors interested in Sri Lankan plants should engage through certified guides, botanical gardens, and licensed Ayurvedic establishments.