Question 1

What is Grevillea robusta used for in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

In Sri Lanka, Grevillea robusta is listed in the catalog of ayurvedic medicinal plants, where bark and leaf preparations have been associated with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory applications. It is also widely planted as a shade tree in tea and coffee estates across the hill country. Its timber has historically been used in furniture and cabinetry.

Question 2

Where does Grevillea robusta grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The tree is most common in Sri Lanka's central highlands, particularly in the districts around Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Badulla, at elevations above roughly 1,000 metres. It is frequently planted in tea estate landscapes as a shade tree and along hill-country roadsides.

Question 3

Is Grevillea robusta native to Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

No, Grevillea robusta is native to eastern Australia. It was introduced to Sri Lanka during the colonial period, primarily to serve as a shade and timber tree in plantation agriculture. Over time it has become sufficiently naturalised to be incorporated into traditional botanical and ayurvedic knowledge.

Question 4

Is Grevillea robusta the same as Silky Oak?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Grevillea robusta is the scientific name for the tree commonly called Silky Oak or Southern Silky Oak. The common name refers to the silky texture of the leaf undersides. In Sri Lanka it is often known by its scientific name in ayurvedic and botanical contexts.

Question 5

When does Grevillea robusta flower in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

In Sri Lanka's hill country, Grevillea robusta typically flowers between approximately February and April, producing conspicuous golden-orange racemes. The flowering period can vary slightly depending on altitude and local microclimate.

Question 6

Is Grevillea robusta an invasive species in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Grevillea robusta has invasive potential in some tropical environments, but in Sri Lanka it is largely managed within estate and plantation systems. It has not caused widespread displacement of native forest vegetation, though its spread near protected natural areas is monitored by conservation bodies.

Question 7

What family does Grevillea robusta belong to?

Accepted Answer

Grevillea robusta belongs to the family Proteaceae, a large family of flowering plants well represented in Australia and southern Africa. Within the genus Grevillea, it is one of the largest species and the most widely cultivated outside its native range.