Ratchaphruek

Ratchaphruek: The Golden Shower, Thailand’s National Flower

The Ratchaphruek (ราชพฤกษ์), scientifically known as Cassia fistula Linn and commonly called the Golden Shower Tree, is the official national flower of Thailand. This majestic tree is perhaps the most beloved and visually striking flora in the kingdom, instantly recognizable by its breathtaking display of brilliant yellow blossoms.

The Symbolism of Gold and Glory

The immense cultural significance of the Ratchaphruek is deeply tied to its vibrant color. The cascading yellow flowers are highly revered in Thai culture as the color is traditionally associated with:

• Buddhism: The yellow/saffron hue symbolizes the robes of Buddhist monks, purity, and the faith itself.
• The Monarchy: Yellow is the color of Monday, the day King Bhumibol Adulyadej (Rama IX) was born, making it a color of the highest honor and royalty.
• Auspiciousness: The local Thai name, Dok Koon, contains the word Khoon (คูณ), which means "to multiply" or "to increase." This imbues the flower with the symbolic power to multiply wealth, success, and good fortune for those who cultivate it.

A Spectacle of the Hot Season

The Ratchaphruek is a deciduous tree that typically sheds its leaves right before the intense burst of flowering, ensuring the spectacle of its pure color is undiluted by green foliage. The blooming season generally occurs during the hottest months of the year, from March to May. This period coincides perfectly with the celebration of Songkran (the Thai New Year). The cheerful, vibrant yellow blossoms thus symbolize a fresh start, renewal, and spiritual purification as the country enters the new year.Due to its stunning visual appeal and profound spiritual meaning, the Ratchaphruek is widely planted in public spaces, gardens, and along avenues across Thailand, serving as a constant reminder of the nation’s cultural reverence for nature, beauty, and auspicious beginnings.