King Bestows Name “Pimolalak” on New Plant Species to Honor Queen Sirikit

Bangkok: His Majesty the King has bestowed the name "Pimolalak" upon a new plant species in honor of Her Majesty the Queen. According to Thai News Agency, the Ministry of Agriculture has expressed profound gratitude for the royal grace extended to the Golden Amethyst trumpet-shaped plant variety by His Majesty the King. This gesture honors Her Majesty Queen Sirikit on the auspicious occasion of her 4th cycle birthday anniversary on June 3, 2026.

Mr. Suriya Jungrungruangkit, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, revealed that the name "Pimonlak" (pronounced Pi-mon-lak) has been graciously given by His Majesty the King to this new variety of trumpet-shaped amethyst plant. The name, meaning "pure beauty," symbolizes loyalty and reflects the significance of the occasion. This new plant species was discovered by the Highland Research and Development Institute (Public Organization) at the Royal Ratchaphruek Park in Chiang Mai Province. It differs significantly from the original species.

The Department of Agriculture officially registered and certified this plant variety on April 17, 2025. The Plant Variety Protection Committee has approved its designation as a new species under the Plant Variety Protection Act B.E. 2542 (1999). This discovery is a notable botanical achievement, showcasing the research potential and plant richness in Thailand.

The Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives noted that all civil servants and officials under the Ministry are deeply thankful for His Majesty's kindness in bestowing this auspicious name on the new variety of trumpet tree. The Golden Amethyst trumpet flower is distinguished by its yellow and purple flowers, with an open, lip-shaped design. The flower's color transitions from bright yellow to paler yellow with pink undertones throughout the day, eventually turning pinkish-white to purplish-pink by the third and fourth days before wilting. The name "Golden Amethyst" aptly reflects the unique color transition of the flower, mirroring the hues of the amethyst gemstone.