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Showy shrub
The Kelani tissa as it is locally known is a shrub which grows to the size of a small tree. It branches quite low and is covered with bright green foliage almost to the ground.

The leaves are pinnate and grow in pairs. They have serrated edges and the surface is smooth though not glossy. They are a bright green on the top and a paler green on the underside. The brightness of the leaves fades with the onset of the dry season and at the height of the drought the plant has a dull and tired appearance.

The Kelani tissa has bright yellow flowers which are quite large and showy. They form in clusters at the end of the branches. Each flower is in the shape of a trumpet, about 2 inches long. The throat or tube of the trumpet is lightly etched in orange.

The flowers are fragrant. The flowering season is during the rains but this plant will usually produce at least a few clusters throughout the year. This has made it sought after for ornamental purposes. The fruit is a narrow, long capsule.

The English name for the Kelani tissa is the Yellow Elder or the Trumpet Flower. The scientific name is Tecoma stans. It was introduced to Sri Lanka from Central America and now grows in the lower montane, wet lowlands and intermediate zones.

It can be seen in gardens and parks due to its ornamental value. In Colombo look out for it in residential gardens. The specimen featured here can be seen in the gardens of the Cathedral on Bauddhaloka Mawatha. Compiled by: Ruk Rakaganno, The Tree Society of Sri Lanka.

Sale of indigenous plants
A sale of primarily indigenous plants and trees will be held on October 22, from 9.30 a.m. to 12.30.p.m. at Kithu Sevana, Bauddhaloka Mawatha (next to the Cathedral). For more information please contact 2554438 or rukraks@sltnet.lk

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