Our national flower of Sri Lanka is Nil Mahanel (Water Lily). It is botanically known as “Nymphaea stellata”. The Nil Mahanel, blue water lily was chosen as the national flower of Sri Lanka in February 1986.
It is found in all parts of the island and grows mainly in shallow water. The flower is considered a symbol of truth, purity and discipline. It has connections with Buddha and was used as ceremonial flower in Sri Lanka throughout history.
The Nli Mahanel introduce in Tamil language as Kamalam and Alli Tamarei. It grows in water. It has many petals and the leaves are round in shape and have a long stem.