Kokoona zeylanica

Kokoona zeylanica
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Plantae
(unranked): Angiosperms
(unranked): Eudicots
(unranked): Rosids
Order: Celastrales
Family: Celastraceae
Genus: Kokoona
Species: K. zeylanica
Binomial name
Kokoona zeylanica
Thwaites

Kokoona zeylanica, known in Sinhala as කොකුන් - (Kokun) is a species of plant in the Celastraceae family. The genus is classified in the family Hippocrateaceae by some authorities.[1]

It is endemic to Sri Lanka. It is extant at Adam's Peak[2] and at Kanneliya.[3]

The species has been listed by the IUCN as threatened.[4]

Description

The Kokun is a large tree with a rough grey bark. It flowers from March to May.[3]

Uses

The Kokun is regarded as a medicinal plant traditionally used in a number of conditions.[3][5] The seed oil from this plant is effective as a leech repellent.[1][3]

The inner bark has been used by jewellers as a polish.[1]

References

  1. 1 2 3 Kokoona zeylanica in BoDD Botanical Dermatology Database
  2. Duraisamy, S. (28 July 2008). "Man feels the pinch for 'kokum' bark offence". Daily News. Retrieved 28 July 2008.
  3. 1 2 3 4 "Kokoona zeylanica". Asia Medicinal Plants Database. National Agrobiodiversity Centre. Retrieved 28 July 2008.
  4. Rajathewa, R A M P. "List of Threatened Plants according to IUCN Red Data Book (1999)". Environment Sri Lanka. Retrieved 28 July 2008.
  5. Wijesundara, D S A. "Inventory, documentation and status of medicinal plants research in Sri Lanka" (PDF). Medicinal Plants Research in Asia. International Plant Genetic Resources Institute. Retrieved 28 July 2008.
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