This tree—Pandanus odoratissimus, known as Mudu
Keyiya in Sinhala, Kaithai in Tamil and Screw Pine in
English—is a native species of Sri Lanka, valued for its
diverse uses in thatching, weaving and its fruit and
flowers.

The tree is also significant in Ayurvedic medicine,
treating ailments from headaches to hepatitis. Its
medicinal properties have led to its introduction in
regions like Congo, Mozambique, Florida and Puerto
Rico.

I title these works using the traditional Latin names
alongside their Sinhala, Tamil and English equivalents,
recognising the cultural connections these trees hold.

The sewn grid in these works not only joining the
elements but also symbolises the controlled botanical
systems imposed during the colonial era, seen in
structured gardens.