Question 1

What is Arisaema leschenaultii?

Accepted Answer

Arisaema leschenaultii is a tuberous herb in the family Araceae, related to the plants commonly called cobra lilies. It is native to parts of South Asia, including Sri Lanka's highland forests, and is documented in the island's catalogue of Ayurvedic medicinal plants.

Question 2

Where does Arisaema leschenaultii grow in Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

The plant is associated with humid montane and submontane forest habitats in Sri Lanka's Central Highlands. It favours shaded, moist forest floors at higher elevations and is most likely to be found within or near protected forest areas such as national parks and reserves.

Question 3

Is Arisaema leschenaultii toxic?

Accepted Answer

Like many Araceae family members, the raw tissues of Arisaema species contain calcium oxalate crystals, which are irritants and potentially harmful if ingested without proper preparation. Traditional Ayurvedic use involves specific processing methods — such as drying or roasting the corm — to reduce this toxicity before any medicinal application.

Question 4

What are the traditional medicinal uses of Arisaema in Ayurveda?

Accepted Answer

In Ayurvedic traditions, plants of the Arisaema genus have been associated with treatments for digestive and respiratory conditions, among others. The corm is the part most commonly referenced in classical formulations, always requiring careful preparation by a trained practitioner.

Question 5

Can I see Arisaema leschenaultii while visiting Sri Lanka?

Accepted Answer

It is possible to encounter this plant on guided naturalist walks in Sri Lanka's montane forest zones, particularly during or after monsoon periods when the spathe is visible. Areas such as the Knuckles Range and forests around Horton Plains offer the most suitable habitat, ideally explored with a knowledgeable local guide.

Question 6

How many medicinal plants are catalogued in Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic system?

Accepted Answer

Sri Lanka's Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia documents hundreds of native plant species with recognised medicinal uses, reflecting thousands of years of traditional knowledge. The catalogue continues to be maintained by government institutions and is used alongside modern phytochemical research to validate and expand understanding of these plants.

Question 7

Why is Sri Lanka considered a biodiversity hotspot for plants?

Accepted Answer

Sri Lanka is one of the world's recognised biodiversity hotspots, with a high proportion of endemic plant species relative to its land area. The combination of varied topography, multiple climatic zones, and long geological isolation has produced an exceptional concentration of unique flora, including many species found only in the island's remaining forest patches.