Bangkok: The discovery of the "Thousand-Petaled Lotus," an ancient flower dating back 1,500 years to the Qin Dynasty, has captivated botanists and historians alike. This unique flower, scientifically named Nelumbo 'Zhizun Qianban,' has long been celebrated in Chinese history and culture as a symbol of beauty and auspiciousness.

According to Thai News Agency, the thousand-petaled lotus first appeared in historical records during the Jin and Sui Dynasties. Renowned for its sacred and rare qualities, this lotus was recently brought back into the spotlight when Dr. Daike Tian from the South China Botanical Garden and Ken Tilt of Auburn University officially identified and named it in 2009. The name 'Zhizun Qianban' reflects its esteemed status, with 'Zhizun' denoting "highest" or "honorable" and 'Qianban' translating to "thousand-petals."

The lotus stands out among aquatic plants, not only for its numerous pink petals but also for its resilience. A press conference at Auburn University's Department of Horticulture highlighted the flower's unique characteristics and its distinction as one of the world's top ten lotus varieties. When cultivated in optimal conditions, the plant can produce up to 1,000 petals per bloom, showcasing its extraordinary floral abundance.

The rediscovery of the thousand-petaled lotus underscores the enduring allure of ancient botanical species and their significance in modern horticulture.