In blossom in October

A spectacular native tree currently in blossom around Chiang Mai is Millingtonia hortensis (Bignoniaceae). It has white hanging flowers which are fragrant in the night. It is a slow-growing tree, but eventually its corky stem and lovely flowers will enrich your garden. A beautiful specimen can be found at the Daradevi Hotel.

Another tree currently in blossom around Chiang Mai is Senna spectabilis (Fabaceae). It has bright yellow flowers arranged in stiff flower clusters, pointing sideways or even slightly upwards, reminding me of fireworks. One Thai name is ‘khi lek american’, indicating its true origin in tropical America. A friend said her guide told them this is the national tree, Cassia fistula, ‘rachapruek’. That is wrong. Cassia fistula has drooping flower clusters, hence the English vernacular name ‘Golden Shower’. When it is in blossom in April, the tree has no leaves. Right now you can see some Cassia fistula trees in blossom, practicing for April.

Some lovely orchids are also displaying their sweet blossom now. One species is Phalaenopsis (Kingidium) deliciosa. It is native, and very delicate, hence the name. You can admire it at Dokmai Garden now. Due to its small size, I hung it in a longan outside the shop where everybody can admire it.

Eric Danell

Phalaenopsis deliciosa is in blossom now. This specimen is a part of the Corien and Folbert Bronsema Orchid donation.

About these ads