016 Cnidoscolus aconitifolius – Chaya (Tree Spinach)
ผักชายา (Phak Chaya) Family: Euphorbiaceae Cnidoscolus aconitifolius, commonly known as Chaya or Tree Spinach, is a perennial shrub native to Central America and now widely cultivated in tropical Asia. In Thailand, it is known as ผักชายา (Phak Chaya) and is valued both as a medicinal and nutritional plant. The leaves are highly nutritious, rich in […]
015 Rauvolfia serpentina – Indian Snakeroot
ระย่อม (Ra Yom) Family: Apocynaceae Rauvolfia serpentina, known as Indian Snakeroot or ระย่อม (Ra Yom), is a small, evergreen shrub native to tropical Asia. It is one of the most historically significant medicinal plants of the region, long valued for its sedative, anti-hypertensive, and detoxifying properties. Its roots contain potent alkaloids that have been used […]
014 Jatropha multifida – Coral Plant
ปัตตาเวีย (Patta Wia) Family: Euphorbiaceae Jatropha multifida, commonly called the Coral Plant, is a striking tropical shrub with deeply divided leaves and vivid coral-red flower clusters. Native to Central America and naturalized across Southeast Asia, it has become an ornamental and medicinal species valued for its resilience and distinctive beauty. Like other Jatropha species, it […]
013 Piper sarmentosum – Wild Betel Leafbush
<h2>ชะพลู (Cha Plu)</h2> <p><strong>Family:</strong> Piperaceae</p> <p><em>Piper sarmentosum</em>, known as Wild Betel Leafbush or ชะพลู (<em>Cha Plu</em>), is a low-growing perennial herb with glossy, heart-shaped leaves and aromatic flavor. Native to tropical Southeast Asia, it is widely used in both Thai cuisine and traditional medicine. Often confused with the betel vine (<em>Piper betle</em>), <em>Piper sarmentosum</em> is […]
012 Alocasia macrorrhizos – Giant Taro
บอนใหญ่ (Bon Yai) Family: Araceae Alocasia macrorrhizos, commonly known as Giant Taro, is a large perennial herb recognized for its impressive arrow-shaped leaves and thick, upright stems. Native to Southeast Asia, it is both a staple ornamental and a plant of long-standing importance in regional folk medicine. The species is often seen near water sources […]
011 Euphorbia tithymaloides – Devil’s Backbone
พญาไร้ใบ (Phaya Rai Bai) Family: Euphorbiaceae Euphorbia tithymaloides, commonly known as Devil’s Backbone, is a semi-succulent shrub recognized for its distinctive zigzag stems and glossy green leaves. Native to Central America, it has adapted well to tropical Asia and is valued both for its sculptural form and traditional medicinal use. The plant’s milky sap, typical […]
010 Gardenia jasminoides – Cape Jasmine
พุด (Phut) Family: Rubiaceae Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub admired for its glossy green leaves and large, white, highly fragrant flowers. Native to southern China and now widespread across tropical Asia, this plant thrives in warm, humid climates and prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. The lustrous foliage and intoxicating scent have made it both […]
009 Phyllanthus acidus – Star Gooseberry
มะยม (Ma Yom) Family: Phyllanthaceae Phyllanthus acidus, known in Thai as มะยม (Ma Yom), or Star Gooseberry, is a small tropical tree found in most Thai village gardens. It is easily recognized by its bright green leaves and clusters of pale yellow, star-shaped fruits. The tree holds an important place in Thai culture and traditional […]
008 Justicia gendarussa – Willow-leaved Justicia
เสลดพังพอนตัวเมีย (Salet Phangphon Tua Mia) Family: Acanthaceae Justicia gendarussa, known in Thai as เสลดพังพอนตัวเมีย (Salet Phangphon Tua Mia), is a small medicinal shrub with slender, willow-like leaves and dark purple stems. It is a staple in Thai traditional medicine, valued for its anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, and analgesic properties. This plant is often grown around Thai homes […]
007 Murraya paniculata – Orange Jasmine
แก้ว (Kaew) Family: Rutaceae Murraya paniculata is an evergreen shrub or small tree widely admired for its glossy leaves and clusters of small, white, intensely fragrant flowers. Native to South and Southeast Asia, the species is commonly grown in temple gardens and traditional Thai homes as both a decorative and medicinal plant. Its aroma resembles […]