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This is a species that is found in most dry zone forested areas of the country. Its origin is not known but it is widespread in many tropical countries of the world including India, Burma, China, Thailand, Iran, Malaysia and the Philippines.

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

This tree grows to a height of about six to nine meters with ascending tufted branches. The whole tree is poisonous. These trees are cultivated in some regions as barrier hedges and the milky latex, and the bark are used in traditional medicine to induce vomiting.

This species usually prefers rocky localities and can be seen in such localities throughout the park. It also can be found among the limestone as well as in the sandy soil. In Wilpattu these trees produce flowers during the months of January and June. I have observed the Lesser Banded Hornet Vespa affinis which has versatile diet feed on the nectar of this species.