Top 20 Most Common Flowering Plants in Sri Lanka

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Top 20 Most Common Flowering Plants in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka's tropical climate and fertile soil create an ideal environment for an array of native flowers to flourish. Within this vibrant ecosystem, three specific blossoms stand out for their visual beauty, cultural symbolism, and ecological importance. Golden shower tree, Jewels of Opar, and Shining bird of paradise add a burst of color to the landscape, showcasing the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka. These flowers serve as a testament to the country's natural beauty and are cherished by both locals and visitors alike.

Most Common Flower Plants

Golden shower tree

1. Golden shower tree

Golden shower tree (Cassia fistula) is a plant that is found in tropical and subtropical regions. It is at its peak during the middle of the summer. Golden shower tree is both the national flower and tree of Thailand. The Latin name "Cassia" comes from "Kassia", which means "fragrant plant." It holds a sacred place in scriptures like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer

Jewels of Opar

2. Jewels of Opar

Jewels of Opar (Talinum paniculatum) is a succulent shrub species native to North and South America, as well as the Caribbean islands. After its introduction, though, it became culturally important in some East Asian regions. The jewels of Opar grows and spreads quickly because any part of its root can sprout into a full plant once it's in the soil.

Spring, Summer, Fall

Four o'clock flower

3. Four o'clock flower

Four o'clock flower (Mirabilis jalapa), also known as the marvel of Peru, is a perennial, herbaceous, bushy plant with fragrant, showy flowers, commonly cultivated for ornamental purposes. During bloom time, its flowers are closed most of the day; they open between four and eight o'clock, hence the common name four o'clock flower.

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Shining bird of paradise

4. Shining bird of paradise

Shining bird of paradise (Heliconia metallica) is an evergreen soft-wooded perennial named for its large, exotic flowers that resemble a bird’s beak. Blooms from spring into summer. Requires rich, moist soil and should not be allowed to dry out between watering. Grows best in full sun or bright light.

Cypress vine

5. Cypress vine

Cypress vine is a beautiful vining plant with fern-like foliage and star-shaped red flowers. Cypress vine is resistant to deer and attractive to hummingbirds and butterflies. It thrives in moist but not soggy soil, with full sun and a structure to climb on. This striking plant is toxic like its cousin, the Morning Glory.

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Garlic vine

Garlic vine (Mansoa alliacea) is a vine species that is commonly grown in the West Indies. This species is native to northern South America. Garlic vine has been exported overseas and grows in warm climates in Puerto Rico, South Africa, Thailand and India.

Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Crown of thorns

7. Crown of thorns

The Euphorbia milii is commonly known as the crown of thorns or Christ thorn, as it is believed to the plant associated with the crown of thorns that was worn by Christ. It needs to stay above 10 ℃ with full sun.

African marigold

8. African marigold

African marigold is a common garden plant with bright orange or red flowers. Its use in decorative and ceremonial gardens dates back to ancient Aztec civilizations. Not only does african marigold add bright colors, but it is also known to repel insects, rabbits, and deer thanks to its toxic latex.

Red frangipani

9. Red frangipani

Red frangipani (Plumeria rubra) is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to Central and South America. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in tropical and subtropical climates. All parts of the plant are toxic when ingested due to their high alkaloid content.

Spring, Summer, Fall

Edible banana

10. Edible banana

Edible banana (Musa acuminata) is an edible evergreen perennial plant native to Southwest Asia. Some people may perceive edible banana to be a tree, but it is a perennial plant. Edible banana is one of the earlier domesticated plants by humans in the history of evolution. The cultivation of these plants for fruit is a major industry. They are also cultivated as ornamental plants.

Late spring, Summer, Fall

Bigleaf hydrangea

11. Bigleaf hydrangea

The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.

Oleander

Nerium oleander, colloquially known as oleander, is a shrub or a small tree, known for its majestic pink five-lobed flowers and deep green lanceolate leaves. Oleander is one of the most poisonous popular decorative garden plants, so it is advised to keep small children and pets away from it.

Golden dewdrops

13. Golden dewdrops

Golden dewdrops (Duranta erecta) is an ornamental sprawling shrub commonly found in subtropical and tropical gardens all over the world. Its gentle purple blossoms are often visited by butterflies and hummingbirds. Golden dewdrops is considered a weed in Australia, South Africa and certain parts of East Asia.

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Early fall, Mid fall

African blood lily

14. African blood lily

African blood lily (Scadoxus multiflorus) is a plant species native to Africa. African blood lily is also called the “African Blood Lily,” “Ball Lily,” “Low Lily,” “Monsoon Lily,” and “Powderpuff Lily.”

Sulfur cosmos

15. Sulfur cosmos

Sulfur cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus) is an annual flowering plant native to Mexico, Central America, and South America. Though widely used as an ornamental plant, sulfur cosmos is considered an invasive species in the United States. It attracts bees and butterflies, including the notable monarch butterfly.

Summer, Fall, Early winter

Poinsettia

The poinsettia is a common sight in the United States during Christmastime. It was popularized by Albert Ecke after he emigrated to California from Germany. Today, 70 million poinsettias are sold in a 6-week period.

Spring, Mid fall, Late fall, Winter

Mysore trumpetvine

17. Mysore trumpetvine

If you’re going to try to grow mysore trumpetvine (Thunbergia mysorensis) at home, keep in mind that it’s a plant for warmer climates. Also, since it’s a climbing plant, you’ll need something sufficiently strong for it to clamber over.

Spring, Summer, Early fall, Winter

Chinese hibiscus

18. Chinese hibiscus

Chinese hibiscus is a small flowering tree. Its fragrant flowers are well known the world over, leading to many cultivated variants. Chinese hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia and is featured on Malaysian coins. Although the Latin name, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, means “the rose of China,” it is not related to true roses.

Spring, Summer, Fall

Busy lizzie

19. Busy lizzie

The long-lasting blooms of busy lizzie are a riot of color. The flowers generally range from vibrant purple to orange. Some of the flowers are used for hair coloring and dyes. Its genus name, Impatiens, comes from the word "impatiens" or "impatient" in Latin because the seed pods are often in a rush to open up.

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall, Early winter

Crepe ginger

20. Crepe ginger

Crepe ginger (Hellenia speciosa) is a plant species that is not drought tolerant. For optimal growth, this plant species must be watered regularly when cultivated as a houseplant. Crepe ginger grows best in partial to full shade.

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More Plants in Sri Lanka

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Most Common Toxic Plants

Sri Lanka's moist and warm climate coupled with rich and varied ecosystems, ranging from dense rainforests to misty highlands, creates a fertile ground for a diverse flora, including , , and . These conditions also contribute to the prevalence of toxic plants in the region. The country's unique biodiversity heightens the concern of encountering such poisonous species amidst its lush greenery.

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Most Common Flowers of Spring

As Sri Lanka embraces Spring, the environment awakens, catalyzing a spectrum of floral life. The iconic unfurls, symbolizing renewal; blossoms herald the season's vibrancy, while the precious adds a touch of unique beauty to the landscape. These flowers are not just visually arresting but culturally significant, enriching the island's Spring aura.

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Most Common Spring Fruits

Spring in Sri Lanka unfurls in a burst of vibrant hues and gentle warmth, breathing life into an array of fruit plants that thrive under the nourishing sun. During this season, , with its succulence, stands as a refreshing symbol of the seasonal transformation. Meanwhile, the rich, flavorful reaches peak ripeness, and the exotic is eagerly anticipated for its unique taste. These fruits, emblematic of Lankan fertility, celebrate the island's natural abundance and the unmistakable freshness of springtime harvest.

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Most Common Fruits

Sri Lanka's tropical climate and fertile soil contribute to the thriving of many local fruit plants. The monsoon rains, coupled with warm temperatures, create a hospitable environment for species such as , , and . These plants not only hold a significant place in Sri Lanka's agriculture but are also deeply embedded in the cultural fabric, representing the island's rich biodiversity and tradition in local cuisine and medicine.

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Most Common Trees

Sri Lanka is blessed with a tropical climate and fertile soil, providing an ideal environment for a rich variety of native trees. Among them, , , and stand tall as emblematic representatives of the region. These trees hold great significance both culturally and ecologically, serving as symbolical landmarks and supporting the local ecosystem. Their presence in Sri Lanka's landscape underscores the country's natural diversity and the importance of preserving its unique flora and fauna.

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Most Common Weeds

Sri Lanka's warm, humid climate and abundant rainfall create an ideal environment for a variety of garden weeds to flourish. Among the most common, , , and are particularly prevalent, posing challenges for gardeners and landscapers in managing their growth and spread. These pervasive weeds compete with cultivated flora for resources, making their control a crucial aspect of maintaining healthy and aesthetically pleasing gardens.

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Most Common Tall Trees

Sri Lanka's lush, tropical climate and diverse terrains are conducive to the growth of colossal trees, reaching high into the sky. Prominent giants of this verdant isle include , , and , each standing as a testament to the country's rich ecological tapestry. These towering species are not only ecological marvels but also bearers of great historical significance, silently narrating tales of the island's natural heritage.

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Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in Sri Lanka may bring a serene cold, but it is also a time when certain flowers bravely bloom. Despite the frosty environment, , , and thrive, showcasing their resilience and beauty. These winter flowers add a touch of color and symbolic depth to the otherwise chilly landscape in Sri Lanka.

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Most Common Plants

In Sri Lanka, you can find Asian Rice, Pepper, Golden pothos, Guava, Garden croton, and more! There are 50 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.

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