New endemic plant species identified in Kithulgala

Researchers have identified a new plant species endemic to Sri Lanka in the Mannakeththa Ella ecosystem in Kithulgala, Kegalle District.

Named Impatiens yakandawalarum, the species belongs to the balsam family and has been given the common names “Kithulgala Balsam” in English and “කිතුල්ගල කූඩලු” in Sinhala.

The discovery began with photographs taken by Salani Gunaratne during a visit to the area. Researcher Peshala Pasan Karunarathne noticed differences between the plant and the similar Impatiens janthina and referred the findings to University of Peradeniya researcher Bhathiya Gopallawa. Field examinations confirmed it as a previously undescribed species.

The plant is distinguished by its ecalcarate nectary, which lacks the tubular spur found in many other Impatiens species. It grows on moist, moss-covered rock surfaces and tree roots and produces dark pink flowers about 2 centimeters across.

The discovery brings the number of Impatiens species recorded in Sri Lanka to 28, including 19 endemic species.

The findings by a five-member research team were published Sept. 30, 2026, in the Ceylon Journal of Science. Researchers also highlighted the need to protect natural ecosystems to conserve rare plant species.