The golden shower tree, or ratchaphruek, is the national flower of Thailand — its cascading yellow blossoms tied to royalty, Buddhism, and national pride.

• National flower: The golden shower (ratchaphruek)
• Scientific name: Cassia fistula
• Status: National flower
• Symbolism: royalty, Buddhism, and unity

About Thailand’s national flower

The ratchaphruek (Cassia fistula) drips with long, hanging clusters of bright yellow flowers in the hot season. Yellow is the color of the Thai monarchy and of Buddhism, which made the golden shower a natural national flower. It also lends its name to a major royal park in Chiang Mai.

Symbolism and tradition

The tree is planted at temples and royal sites, and its golden blooms feature in festivals and Thai national identity.

National flower of Thailand FAQs

What is the national flower of Thailand?

The national flower of Thailand is the golden shower tree, or ratchaphruek (Cassia fistula), whose cascading yellow blooms represent Thai royalty and Buddhism.

What does Thailand’s national flower represent?

The golden shower’s yellow blooms symbolize Thai royalty and the Buddhist faith, and represent unity and glory.

Why is yellow significant to Thailand’s national flower?

Yellow is the color of the Thai monarchy and of Buddhism, so the golden-yellow blooms of the ratchaphruek (golden shower tree) made it a fitting national flower.

Explore more

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