Thailand is a large country in SE Asia that has a tropical, wet climate. This country supports the life and growth of an impressive variety of native flora and fauna. Most of Thailand’s plant life is endangered and on the verge of extinction. Fortunately the country recognises this and is making huge preservation efforts to protect these endangered species, both on land and in the sea. As well as its own unique species. Thailand also has many other types of plants, flowers and animals that are commonly found in Europe.
The three most common flowers that are native to Thailand are:
Ratchaphruek
This flower, from the plant known as the Golden Shower is not only a native flower but also the national flower of Thailand. This beautiful yellow flower grows in clusters on the trees. Yellow is the symbolic colour of Buddhism. These flowers are prolific during February, March and April and the flowers represent the unity and harmony of Thai people. The tree and flower is found all over Thailand and is often seen at roadsides.
Bat Flower
The Bat Flower is native to the whole region, but especially Thailand, and is sometimes called the devil flower. It is black and purples and looks like a flying bat (hence the name). It blooms in later summer/early fall and has green and white leaves. These flowers prefer the more humid areas and a healthy plant in a wet area can reach up to 12 inches in diameter. They also have unique whiskers which can grow up to 2 feet in length. It uses these for pollination via passing animals. The flowers themselves can grow up to 2 feet high in the right conditions.
Frangipani
This is a truly native flower of Thailand and is also known as Lantom. These flowers are often used in Buddhist rituals. They grow on deciduous trees and are part of the plumeria species. This tree can reach heights of up to 25 feet and the flowers can be white, yellow or pink, pink being the most common colour. Frangipani, being native to Thailand, is a tropical plant and flourishes in well-drained soil and full sunlight. It can also be grown successfully in containers and kept to an exact shape with careful pruning.