100-Year-Old Tree Makes Up to 40,000 Baht Yearly

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A 100-year-old parkia speciosa tree in Trang, Thailand earns as much as 40,000 baht a year due to the high demand for its large, tasty pods. Satit Ramna, owner of the tree located in Na Yong district's Suan Ta Chan Tonmai Panpi, employs locals to harvest the pods from his four century-old trees.

 

Despite a recent three-month drought, each tree is set to produce 800 to 1,000 pods, just a bit fewer than usual. Selling between 3.50 and 5 baht each, the pods continue to be popular because of their size - as large as a 5 baht coin - and their quality - long and large.

 

Locally known as sato, these parkia speciosa pods are unique in their flavor. Satit promises their rich, nutty taste, along with a gentler aroma, sets them above other types. The mineral-rich soil of Na Yong, from the nearby Banthat mountains, enhances the quality of these pods. The result? Crispy, slightly bitter pods that fans pre-order each year - and a yearly income of 30,000 to 40,000 baht.

 

Satit’s family has been growing these trees, originally from Banthat mountains, for three generations. Only four of the trees survive today, but they continue to draw in customers due to their reputation. With the ability to produce pods all year, these trees assure a continuous supply.

 

 

 

 

Two types of parkia speciosa are available: sato khao and sato dan. Sato khao is favored for its softer texture and weaker scent, perfect for eating raw, in curry dishes or with chili paste. The sato dan variety is bigger and tougher, with a stronger smell, and is less popular.

 

The pods are not just a culinary delight, they also offer health benefits. They are believed to provide anti-aging effects, lessen wrinkles, and improve eye health owing to the calcium and phosphorus in them. They are also said to aid in blood flow and decrease anemia. Often, leftover pods are pickled and sold online nationwide.

 

According to Satit, the trees have been producing 50 to 100 pods at a time throughout the year. The pods are bought by local vendors for 3.50 to 5 baht each. Satit proudly attests that Na Yong's unique climate and mountain soil are the secrets to the special taste of his parkia speciosa.

 

Satit has a loyal customer in Phetchaburi who orders around 3,000 pods per year, refusing any other variety. As soon as the pods are harvested, vendors snap them up, thus ensuring none get wasted. And given that each tree produces about 3,000 pods annually, it proves these trees continue to be remarkably productive.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-09-10
 

 

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