People all over the world speak different languages and practice different religions. Depending on their religion, race, clothing, customs, and diet can be varied. But national symbols are used to treat a country as one nation. It reflects the national and cultural uniqueness of the country. As far as Sri Lanka is concerned, there are several national symbols. Among these symbols, the national tree can be identified as a symbol of auspiciousness. The Na tree is known as the national tree of Sri Lanka.
Na tree was named as the national tree of Sri Lanka on 26th February 1986. The tree has been a national symbol for about 34 years, which has led to a close relationship between the Sri Lankan people and the Na tree. It is also a sacred plant. Indigenousness, usability, historical and cultural significance, appearance, color, and nature have led to the selection of the Na tree as the national tree.
This has become a plant of great value to the people of Sri Lanka. According to local usage, there are several reasons for naming the Na tree “Na”. Na is used for elephants and cobras. It is believed that the name was applied because it is a strong plant and is considered as strong as an elephant.
Flower of the National Tree(Na Flower)
The Na flower is white in colour and consists of four mani petals. During the Vesak season, the Na tree filled with Na flowers and heals the entire area. Na flower is a flower of religious value and the beauty of Na trees and flowers will be able to beautify the national park. Although the Na tree is the national tree of Sri Lanka, it is a rare plant in Sri Lanka.
Na flower is also used as a herbal raw material. Na tree grows to a height of about 30 m in rainforests and is endemic to the lowland wet zone of Shingra Lanka. The distinctive feature of this plant is the location of the bright red leaves. Later the leaves turn dark green.
Wood of the Na Tree
The wood of the Na tree is very strong and has a durability. The coniferous na tree is widely branched. Na wood was originally used to build bridges. But today the use of na wood is not allowed due to its religious value. There are two varieties of Na tree and the Na tree in India as well as in South Asian countries is particularly wide and has red flowers that are slightly wider than the Na tree present in Sri Lanka. Na tree has a special place in Sri Lanka since ancient times. The Na tree has been used in parables in ancient literary works. Baby leaves of Na are used to liken a woman’s lips.
