Ratchaphruek trees

Ratchaphruek trees (pronounced rart-cha-pru-ek), scientific name Cassia fistula, are deciduous trees found all throughout Southeast Asia. It's common name is the Golden Shower Tree due to its characteristic bright yellow flowers. It is also supposed to have medical properties including uses as a laxative and a remedy for aching bones and heart problems. My mother recalled fondly that when she was a child, the sight of blooming ratchaphruek trees would lift her spirits greatly, because it heralded the end of the school year and the beginning of the hot summer season. The tree is called Ngu wa in Burma.

The reason I chose this tree as part of my title is because the ratchaphruek is the national flower and a symbol of Thailand, a place where I will call home for the next year. Since the color of the flower is yellow, it is also associated with the king of Thailand, His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, also known as Rama IX.

Cassia fistula (Photo from Wikipedia)