Question 1

What is Samanea saman called in Sinhala?

Accepted Answer

Samanea saman is most commonly called Mara (මාර) in Sinhala. It is also referred to as the rain tree or monkey pod in English, names that have become widely used across tropical countries where the tree is naturalised.

Question 2

What are the medicinal uses of the rain tree in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

In Sri Lankan Ayurveda, the bark of Samanea saman is used for its astringent properties, particularly in preparations for headaches and skin conditions. The sweet pulp of the seed pods has traditionally been used as a mild digestive aid, and the leaves are applied topically in some folk remedies.

Question 3

Why do rain tree leaves close at night?

Accepted Answer

Samanea saman exhibits nyctinasty — a movement response to changes in light rather than temperature or moisture. The leaflets fold inward at dusk and reopen at dawn. They also close during heavy overcast, which is likely the origin of the common name 'rain tree'.

Question 4

Where can I see large rain trees in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

Impressive specimen rain trees can be found in the ancient city precincts of Polonnaruwa, along dry-zone village roads, and near the buffer zones of national parks such as Wilpattu. The tree is also common in lowland gardens and along older estate roads in the wet zone.

Question 5

Is rain tree wood good for furniture?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Samanea saman timber is popular among Sri Lankan craftspeople for its attractive grain and warm dark-brown heartwood. It is used for furniture, cabinetry, decorative carvings, and wooden bowls. It is sometimes sold internationally under the trade name 'monkey pod'.

Question 6

Is Samanea saman native to Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

No, Samanea saman is originally native to Central and South America. It has been introduced and naturalised across tropical Asia, including Sri Lanka, over several centuries, and is now so well established that it is considered part of the local flora and traditional plant knowledge.

Question 7

Can you eat the pods of the rain tree?

Accepted Answer

The seed pods of Samanea saman contain a sweet, sticky dark pulp that is technically edible and has been consumed as a snack or used in folk medicine in various tropical countries. In Sri Lanka, the pods are not commonly eaten as food today, though the pulp's sweetness and mild laxative effect are noted in traditional Ayurvedic references.