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This is a small shrub belonging to the Apocyanaceae family, which is widely distributed in tropical regions around the Indian Ocean. It is well known in Australia as the Current Bush. In Sri Lanka it is found throughout the dry zone.

The conservation status of this species is regarded as “Least Concerned” (National Red List 2020).

The small white flowers can be seen throughout the year. The berries of this plant, which turns purple when ripe, are edible. However, the sap of this plant as well as the unripe fruits that contain this sap is poisonous. The Massai people in Kenya use parts of this plant to treat joint and muscle pain. The ripe berries of this plant are quite popular as a bush food among the Australian aborigines.

In Sri Lanka this plant is found throughout the dry zone areas and the ripe berries are sought after by many species of birds and animals as well as the village kids during the fruiting season.

In Wilpattu this is one of the commonest shrubs that can be seen throughout the park in open habitats. The flowers can be seen throughout the year. I have seen the ripe berries mostly during September - November.