National Flowers of 10 Southeast Asian Countries

Originating from the medieval symbols of European monarchs, a national flower is an adored emblem symbolizing a country, each with its unique significance.

Myanmar's Fragrant Eye-catching Bloom

Myanmar's national flower is the padauk (Pterocarpus indicus), a fragrant yellow cluster. In Myanmar culture, this flower embodies youth, love, and romance, playing an essential role in traditional ceremonies and religious practices in the Land of the Golden Pagoda.

Indonesia's Trio: Jasmine, Moon Orchid, and Corpse Lily

Indonesia boasts three national flowers. Jasmine symbolizes nobility and purity. The moon orchid, a beautiful orchid species, thrives widely in Indonesia. The corpse lily, exclusive to Sumatra Island, gains worldwide fame for its colossal size and a scent reminiscent of decaying flesh.

Philippines and the Arabian Jasmine

This flower, with its white color and star-shaped petals exuding a sweet fragrance, is prevalent in Filipino folklore, legends, and songs. The sampaguita flower is considered a symbol of purity, humility, simplicity, and strength.

Brunei's Splendor with the Simpor Flower

The simpor flower (dillenia suffruticosa) showcases large, vibrant yellow petals. Found along Brunei's rivers, especially the Temburong River, and in swampy or sandy areas, the simpor flower motif is widely featured in Brunei's traditional handicrafts and even graces the nation's one-dollar coin.

Thailand and the Golden Shower Tree

The Thai people regard the golden hue of this flower as a representation of Buddhism and glory. The ratchaphruek flower also symbolizes the unity and harmony of the Thai people.

Cambodia and the Radiant Rumdul Flower

The rumdul flower (mitrella mesnyi) boasts a round, light yellow appearance and emits a captivating fragrance, particularly enchanting during the night. For centuries, Cambodian women have been likened to this flower. Often cultivated for landscaping in public spaces, the rumdul flower graces every corner of the Cambodian landscape.

Malaysia's Blossoming Hibiscus

The hibiscus rosa-sinensis, a five-petaled flower in vibrant red, symbolizes Malaysia's five principles – the nation's philosophy of strengthening unity and reconciling its diverse ethnicities, with red representing courage. This flower is cultivated across the entire Malaysian nation.

Vietnam and the Lotus Flower

The lotus flower (nelumbo nucifera) symbolizes the nobility and indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people in the face of adversity. The imagery of the lotus flower holds significant roles in architecture, sculpture, and artistic literary works throughout many centuries of Vietnamese history.

Singapore and the Miss Joaquim Orchid

Debuting in 1899, this orchid is named after its creator, a female gardener named Agnes Joaquim. With its exquisite beauty, the miss joaquim orchid has captured the hearts of flower enthusiasts and is widely cultivated across the Lion City.

Laos and the Dok Champa Flower

For the people of Laos, the dok champa represents sincerity and joy in life. This flower is often used for decorating ceremonies or crafted into welcoming garlands. The dok champa flower is commonly grown throughout the Laotian territory, especially in the vicinity of monasteries.

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Source: Mytour Travel Guide – Via: VnExpress