BANGKOK, August 10 (TNA) – Thailand showcases new plant species discovered by Thai researchers at an exhibition held in honour of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit the Queen Mother.
The exhibition at Siam Paragon shopping complex is organised by Thailand Institute of Scientific and Technological Research (TISTR) and related agencies.
It highlights a new species of Annonaceae, Mitrephora sirikitiae, which was discovered by TISTR researchers in 2006 in Mae Hong Son province.
The plant has flowers similar to Mitrephora winitii, but much larger in size with mild fragrance.
Another highlight of the event is Magnolia sirindhorniae, which is named after Queen Sirikit’s daughter, Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn.
The new species of magnolia was found by TISTR in a forest in Lop Buri province in 2000.
A ‘flower sculpture’ made of 8,888 blooming flowers also impresses visitors at the event.
Thailand is celebrating Her Majesty Queen Sirikit’s 88th birthday anniversary on Wednesday, which is also the national Mother’s Day. (TNA)