Rare owl-eyed plant ‘Phitsawong Thai Thong’ emerges in Tak forest

A rare miniature plant called Phitsawong Ta Nok Huk, or Phitsawong Thai Thong, has appeared in the forests of Tak province's Umphang district during the rainy season, capturing the attention of nature enthusiasts and tourists. The plant, scientifically identified as Thismia thaithongiana, was discovered during a survey conducted yesterday, August 17, by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) Tak office, the Umphang tourism group, and Umphang Wildlife Sanctuary.

The survey took place near Doi Hua Mot in Umphang subdistrict, where multiple plants were found sprouting and beginning to bloom.

The plant's small size and its growth near the forest floor make it difficult to spot, as it seamlessly blends into its surroundings. Its most striking characteristic is its uncanny resemblance to a pair of owl’s eyes, which is the origin of its Thai name, Phitsawong Ta Nok Huk, translating to "owl-eyed Phitsawong." The species emerges during the rainy season and is currently visible in Umphang until around October.

Phitsawong Thai Thong also shares a symbiotic relationship with fungi in the soil, highlighting the intricate connections within the forest ecosystem. Authorities at TAT Tak advise visitors to approach the plant with care and attentiveness, utilizing cameras or mobile phones on zoom to observe it closely without causing any disturbance. It is also requested that visitors refrain from picking or damaging the plants and travel responsibly to aid in the protection of the species and the surrounding Umphang forest.