This Pikulan tree is far more than a mere tree standing in Suan Sampran. It is the very point from which Suan Sampran’s story began — a tale that now stretches over six decades.

In the year 1960, or 67 years ago,
Dr. Chamnarn Yuvaboon journeyed by boat along the Tha Chin River (also known as the Nakhon Chai Si River) on an official inspection with the Governor of Nakhon Pathom Province. Along the riverbank, he came upon a Pikulan tree, toppled and leaning precariously toward the water. Moved by affection and a deep desire to preserve this tree, he chose to purchase the land upon which it stood, transforming it into a private retreat.

From that quiet personal haven bloomed a venture that would flourish into what we see today: It began with a “Rose Garden,” where fresh-cut roses were harvested each morning and sent to the White Rose shop — Bangkok’s first florist. From there, it blossomed into a thriving destination for tourism, hospitality, and a stage upon which the beauty of Thai arts and culture could be shared with the world.

On May 27, 2025, Suan Sampran, together with the Tropical Dendrochronology Laboratory of the Faculty of Forestry at Kasetsart University, carefully collected wood samples from this Pikulan tree using specialized equipment, seeking to uncover its true age.