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Why the smell of devil trees delights some but sickens others
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BANGKOK — As Thailand moves into the cooler season, the strong scent of devil trees, known locally as ton teen ped or phaya sattaban, is once again dividing opinion. While some people find their flowers fragrant and refreshing, others say the smell can trigger headaches, dizziness and nausea.
Key facts
- The devil tree (Alstonia scholaris) is a tall evergreen native to Southeast Asia that can grow 12–20 metres high
- BANGKOK — As Thailand moves into the cooler season, the strong scent of devil trees, known locally as ton teen ped or phaya sattaban, is once again dividing opinion
- Why do people react differently to the smell?
- The trees typically bloom around the transition from the rainy season to the cool season
Summary
The devil tree (Alstonia scholaris) is a tall evergreen native to Southeast Asia that can grow 12–20 metres high. Commonly planted along roads and in open spaces across Thailand, it has a distinctive tiered canopy and clusters of small white or greenish-white flowers.
The trees typically bloom around the transition from the rainy season to the cool season. Their powerful fragrance has earned them the nickname “devil trees” and made their flowers a familiar seasonal talking point.