Dok Kae (Sesbania Grandiflora): Hua Hin’s Edible Flower with Health Benefits

Executive Summary

Dok Kae (Sesbania grandiflora), known in Thailand as ดอกแค, is a fast-growing tropical tree cherished in Hua Hin for its edible flowers, leaves, and pods. Its orchid-like blooms are used in traditional dishes such as sour Dok Kae soup, spicy curries, and stir-fries, offering rich nutrition with calcium, iron, and vitamins A & C. Beyond the kitchen, Dok Kae is valued for medicinal benefits like reducing fever, aiding digestion, and providing antioxidants. Thriving in Hua Hin’s hot, humid climate, it grows easily in home gardens and is found at local markets, restaurants, and eco-friendly resorts, symbolizing the harmony of food, health, and culture.

Here’s what you need to know about this plant in the Hua Hin context:

1. Overview of Sesbania grandiflora (Dok Kae)

• Common Names: Hummingbird tree, Agasti, Corkwood tree, ดอกแค (Dok Kae)
• Characteristics:
  • Fast-growing, small to medium-sized tree (up to 10m tall).
  • Large, white or red flowers (resembling orchids) that bloom in clusters.
  • Fern-like leaves and long, slender seed pods.
• Uses: Edible flowers, leaves, and young pods; medicinal properties; nitrogen-fixing (improves soil).

2. Culinary Uses in Thailand (Dok Kae)

• Dok Kae Soup (แกงแค) – A popular Thai sour soup made with the flowers, often cooked with tamarind, shrimp paste, and herbs.
• Stir-fried Dok Kae (ดอกแคผัด) – Flowers stir-fried with garlic, chili, and oyster sauce.
• Kaeng Dok Khae (แกงดอกแค) - Spicy Agasta Flower Curry a fragrant Thai curry made with Agasta flowers, coconut milk, and bold spices.
• Vegetarian Kaeng Lueang Dok Khae (Southern Thai Yellow Curry with Agasta Flowers) 
  
• Young Leaves & Pods – Used in salads or curries.
• Nutrition: Rich in calcium, iron, and vitamins A & C.

3. Medicinal Benefits

• Traditional remedies use Dok Kae for:
  • Reducing fever & inflammation.
  • Supporting digestion & relieving constipation.
  • Antioxidant & antimicrobial properties.

4. Growing Sesbania grandiflora in Hua Hin

• Climate: Thrives in tropical climates like Hua Hin (hot, humid, well-drained soil).
• Planting Tips:
  • Grows quickly from seeds or cuttings.
  • Prefers full sun and moderate water.
  • Often planted in home gardens or as a shade tree.
• Pests/Diseases: Generally hardy but may attract caterpillars or aphids.

5. Where to Find Dok Kae in Hua Hin?

• Local Markets: Sold fresh at markets like Hua Hin Night Market or Chatchai Market.
• Thai Restaurants: Some traditional eateries serve Gaeng Dok Kae (แกงดอกแค).
• Gardens/Homestays: Some eco-friendly resorts or farms may grow it.

6. Cultural Significance

• In Thai culture, Dok Kae is valued for its edible and medicinal uses.
• The flowers are sometimes used in traditional ceremonies.