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Common Name : Green Shrimp Plant     -       Scientific Name : Ecbolium ligustrinum (Acanthaceae)       -       Other Name : Green Ice Crossandra (E)
Kuruttupandi junction
03/22/2016
Borupan Wila junction
06/28/2015
Borupan Wila junction
06/28/2015
Borupan Wila junction
06/28/2015

This is a plant that is found under shade in the dry lowland and intermediate zone forests. Other than in Sri Lanka it is native to Nepal, India, Malaysia, Saudi Arabia and Africa.

The conservation status of this species is regarded as Least Concerned (National Red List 2012).

This plant with its unusual green and blue flowers stands out among the flowering plants of our forests. It is mostly seen in forested areas under the shade of tall trees and produces flowers throughout the year. Leaves and roots of this plant are used in Ayurveda medicine to treat gout, jaundice and rheumatism.

A species of Hesperiidae butterfly found in India, the Common Spotted Flat, lays eggs on this plant. So far there has been no records of any Sri Lankan butterfly laying eggs on this species.

I have seen this plant at many locations in the park under the shade of tall trees.  It is not a common species but is seen throughout the park in suitable habitat.