The RUMDUL: Cambodia's National Flower

The Rumdul (Mitrella Mesnyi) bears a small yellowish-white flower with a single alternate leaf. The flower produces a distinctive fragrance which is prominent in the evening.

Due to its attractive scent, the Khmer women had often been compared to the Rumdul flower during the ancient times. The Rumdul tree, which grows to a height of 8 -12 meters, can be seen almost everywhere in Cambodia, and is often planted as a decorative tree in public parks.


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Southeast Asia’s National Flowers

--ASEAN Sec, Pisanu

The SIMPOR: Brunei's National Flower

The Simpor (Dillenia Suffruticosa) tree has large bright yellow petals and large leaves. When fully in bloom, the petals spreading out like an umbrella.

The image of the Simpor flower is found on the Brunei one-dollar bank note. It is also widely used in Brunei in art design for traditional handicrafts. The Simpor is commonly found along the rivers in Brunei, especially the Temburong River, and also at swamp or white sand areas. Most parts of the tree have multiple uses, for instance, the treatment of wounds.

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Southeast Asia’s National Flowers

--ASEAN Sec, Pisanu

The DOK CHAMPA: Laos' National Flower

The Dok Champa (Plumeria) is the national flower and official symbol of Lao PDR. The waxy flower with a sweet scent can be found in many colors: red, yellow, pink and multiple pastels.



For the Lao people, Dok Champa represents sincerity and joy in life. The flower is often used as a decoration in ceremonies or made into a garland to welcoming guests. The Dok Champa blooms everyday and lasts a long time. The trees are planted throughout the country and in particular, can be seen near the monastic areas.

It is widely known as Frangipani around the word, "Kalachuchi" in the Philippines, "Kembang Kamboja" in Indonesia, "Dead man's fingers" in Australia.

What is it called in your country?


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Southeast Asia’s National Flowers

--ASEAN Sec, Sofia

The ANGREK BULAN: Indonesia's National Flower

The Moon Orchid or Angrek bulan (Phalaenopsis Amabilis) is one of Indonesia’s three national flowers. The other two are Jasminum sambac and the Rafflesia arnoldii. The Moon Orchid is one of the longest blooming orchids.



The inflorescence are branched and can last from two to six months before dropping. The Moon Orchid usually blooms two to three times a year once it has reached maturity. It thrives in moist temperature so it is widely found in the lowlands of Indonesia.


Southeast Asia’s National Flowers

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--ASEAN Sec, Sofia

The BUNGA RAYA: Malaysia's National Flower

The five-petaled Bunga raya (Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis) has been Malaysia’s national flower since 1960. The flower can be found throughout the country and parts of the Bunga raya’s shrub have medicinal and cosmetic uses.




Symbolically, the five petals of the bunga raya represent the “Five Principles of Nationhood” – Malaysia’s national philosophy in strengthening national unity and tolerance -- while the red colour represents courage.

What is it called in your country?


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Southeast Asia’s National Flowers

--ASEAN Sec