Pini Beraliya (Doona ovalifolia) takes root again through the overarching work of Dilmah’s Endane biodiversity Corridor
Pini Beraliya (Doona ovalifolia) was listed as extinct in the wild in Sri Lanka’s 2012 National Red List. Its story took a hopeful turn when it was rediscovered in three locations—Ayagama (Sabaragamuwa Province) , Kelin Kanda (Western Province), and Wewella (North Western Province) —through wider research linked to Dilmah’s Endane Biodiversity Corridor. Since then, 250 saplings have been cultivated under special conditions at the Endane Plant Nursery.
Pini Beraliya favours water banks, and it’s no coincidence that all three known populations were discovered in different locations – each near a water body.
On August 7th, together with the Wewella community from Walallawitta we planted 12 of these in Wewella, marking a meaningful step towards restoring this rare species in its native habitat.
The rediscovery of a plant previously listed as “Extinct in the Wild” holds powerful significance for conservation. It offers a rare second chance for a species once thought lost in nature, renewing hope and momentum in global biodiversity efforts. Such discoveries highlight the importance of continued fieldwork, local ecological knowledge, and habitat protection. They also higlight the urgency of safeguarding these newly found wild populations, which are often small and vulnerable.
Beyond their symbolic value, rediscovered plants may carry unique genetic traits crucial for long-term species resilience. These moments can inspire public interest, attract funding, and drive stronger conservation policies—serving as reminders that nature, when given the chance, can still surprise and recover.
Scientists, conservationists, academics, forest department officials and Wewella community gathered to celebrate this special event. The Scientists and conservationists who discovered the plants told the community of the importance of Beraliya plant and handed over the responsibility of caring for the planted saplings.
The Sign reads:
This location, where Pini Beraliya, a critically endangered plant species endemic to Sri Lanka, is found, is one of the very last remaining places where it exists Known by the scientific name Doona ovalifolia, it belongs to the Dipterocapacea family( Common name: Hora). Highly valuable and containing medicinal benefits this plant is protected under the the Flora and Fauna Protection Act No. 22 of 2009.
