Researchers have identified and scientifically described a previously unknown plant species endemic to Sri Lanka from the Mannakeththa Ella ecosystem in Kitulgala, Kegalle District.
The species has been named Impatiens yakandawalarum.
It belongs to the Impatiens genus in the balsam family and has been given the proposed common names "Kithulgala Balsam" in English and "කිතුල්ගල කූඩලු" in Sinhala.
The new species grows on moist, moss-covered rock surfaces and tree roots.
Researchers report that it produces dark-pink flowers approximately two centimetres across and has morphological features distinguishing it from closely related Impatiens species.
One distinguishing feature is an ecalcarate nectary, lacking the tubular spur found in many other members of the genus.
With the new description, the number of Impatiens species recorded from Sri Lanka rises to 28.
Nineteen of those species are reported to be endemic to Sri Lanka.
The species name honours Sri Lankan botanists Professor Kapila Yakandawala and Professor Deepthi Yakandawala for their contributions to botanical research.
The research was conducted by a five-member team involving researchers including Bhathiya Gopallawa, Peshala Pasan Karunarathne, Chathura Jayatissa, Salani Gunaratne and Sandali Hapuarachchi.
The research describing the species was published on September 30, 2026 in the Ceylon Journal of Science.
The publication of a formal taxonomic description is important because it provides a scientific basis for recognising the plant as a distinct species rather than merely reporting an unusual field observation.
Researchers have also highlighted the importance of protecting the natural habitats supporting rare and endemic Sri Lankan plants.