Will The Erythrina or Erabudu Tree, Become A Memory Of The Past?

COLOMBO (News 1st) The Erythrina tree, locally known as 'Erabudu', adds a unique charm to the New Year celebrations.

Traditionally, two types of Erythrina trees have adorned Sri Lanka's historic villages during the New Year: the Erythrina variegata and the Erythrina fusca, known locally as the Erabudu and Yak Erythrina, respectively.

These trees, scientifically named Erythrina variegata and Erythrina fusca, were once widespread in the country.

Typically, the leaves of these trees begin to fall as they start to bloom in April. 

The sight of these trees covered in beautiful red flowers is truly enchanting. 

However, this stunning view has become increasingly rare in recent times due to the gradual decline of the Erythrina tree population.

"When we investigated the cause, we found that in 2006, a species of insect known as the Erythrina Gall Wasp was reported in Sri Lanka. The damage caused by this insect is believed to be responsible for the decline of these trees. Additionally, unlike in the past, Erythrina trees are no longer planted as fences. Nowadays, walls are built instead of fences, and as a result, these trees are gradually disappearing from our surroundings," exaplained Professor Cyril Wijesundara, a Botanist. 

The Erythrina tree is not only aesthetically pleasing but also holds medicinal value.

"This tree is important for its beauty and cultural significance, as well as its medicinal properties. In traditional Sri Lankan medicine, Erythrina leaves, bark, and seeds are used. They are used for various ailments, including skin conditions and as an anti-cancer treatment. The tree also provides shade in tea plantations. It is a very important tree found in tropical countries," he noted.

Given the significance of the Erythrina tree, it is crucial to scientifically confirm the relationship between its decline and the Erythrina Gall Wasp, or other potential factors. This responsibility falls on our country's researchers.

Furthermore, based on scientific research, it is the duty of the authorities to take appropriate measures to conserve this tree. If not, the Erythrina tree, which doubles the beauty of the New Year season, will become nothing more than a memory of the past.