Natural Beauty in the Kham Mok Luang Tree Park: The Tree of the University of Phayao
The University of Phayao has allocated various tracts of land as green zones and recreational areas. Among these is an area dedicated to the conservation and propagation of the Kham Mok Luang tree, the tree of the University of Phayao, under Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn’s conservation project.
The scientific name of the Kham Mok Luang tree is Gardenia sootepensis, also called Golden Gardenia. It is a medium-sized tree that grows up to 15 meters tall with oval-shaped leaves with smooth edges and pointed tips. The tree produces yellow waxy flowers with five petals, each approximately 5-8 cm wide, which bloom at night and emit a sweet aroma, and fade in late afternoon. Its ball-shaped fruit measures approximately 1.8-2.5 cm in diameter.
The University of Phayao has researched, classified, and identified various plant species and prepared botanical and ecological data for use in propagation. GPS (Global Positioning System) was used to record locations of the Kham Mok Luang tree scattered throughout the University of Phayao, and concentrated in two areas: near the entrance to Phra Buddhaa Phusha Ka Raksa, and in front of the University of Phayao Demonstration School. There are 144 naturally growing Kham Mok Luang trees and 336 Kham Mok Luang trees planted by the university for conservation, propagation, and to beautify the university. These forest gardens are located in four main areas: in front of the University of Phayao Demonstration School, along Angluang (the University entrance at Gate 3), in front of the Sufficiency Economy Learning Center, and around the student dormitory at the University of Phayao Demonstration School. An additional 2,500 Kham Mok Luang saplings have been planted for further cultivation.
Currently, it is the season when Kham Mok Luang trees bloom and exhibit their beauty. One can admire the trees around several areas within the University of Phayao grounds:
- At the entrance to the Phra Buddha Phusha Ka Raksa
- In front of the University of Phayao Demonstration School
- In the parking area at the main entrance to the University of Phayao
- In front of the Sufficiency Economy Learning Center
- In front of the 8th Executive House
- In the forest opposite the Famui Hospice
- In the Thai Green Peafowl Conservation Forest
- In the Huai Thap Chang Forest
Source: Mr. Chayut Tanathip (Division of Building and Facilities), Ms. Tanunyarat Pinchai (Information staff)
Project: RSPG[1] and Mr. Nuchakrit Prasertkulwong (RSPG Project Coordination staff)
[1] Plant Genetic Conservation Project Under the Royal Initiative of Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn (RSPG)