In Sri Lankan culture, the flower of the araliya <em>(ar-a-lee-a)</em> tree bears a special role. On days of religious significance, the flowers are borne to the temple by Buddhist children and women as an offering to Buddha.<br><br>The flowers are frequently found at festive occasions in homes and hotels, often in a bowl of water. They may also be made into a garland for visiting foreign dignitaries.<br><br>The araliya tree is called "Temple Tree" by English-speaking Sri Lankans. The Sri Lankan Prime Minister's official residence in Kollupitiya, Colombo also bears the name "Temple Trees".