Thanks to the recent Thai government and a large interest by the Thai Royal family, the flora in Thailand is now starting to gain more ground. From the days of the slash and burn method of farming, which left entire mountainsides desolate and barren to implementing a more eco-friendly approach to agricultural farming practises, Thailand has certainly come a long way in preserving its native wild flower species.
Vegetation and indeed the wild flowers of Thailand can be divided into two main subsets of tropical forest. These are the Monsoon Forest and the other is the Rain Forest. With more than a quarter of Thailand covered in rich forested land, it is little wonder that we can see some of the most amazing wild flowers in the world here.
It is debatable as to what the national floral emblem is of Thailand. Some claim it to be the Golden Shower Tree. This can be grown everywhere in Thailand and is often seen lining the roads into villages everywhere. This plant was chosen due to its golden clustered flowers. The yellow or saffron colour is representative of Buddha, and therefore has a storing place in the hearts of the Thai population.
Other native plants include the Bat plant, also known as the devil flower. It looks just like a flying bat and has a purple-black flower that blooms in late summer. The Frangipane is also referred to as Lantom in Thailand. This has one of the most magnificent fragrances that is more prevalent at night.
The other floral symbol that often fights for the title, is the orchid. Thailand has the largest variety and number of orchids than anywhere else in Asia. Flowering mainly in the winter of Thailand, the best time to witness these exquisite flowers is during January. They can thrive without the need for soil and can live on the side of some of the most arid landscapes in Thailand.
