Renowned orchid expert Rapee Sagarik passed away on Saturday morning at the age of 95.
Prof Rapee died of natural causes at his residence in the Ngam Wong Wan area of Bangkok at around 6.30am, Thai media reported, quoting an aide.
(Photo from Prof Rapee Sagarik's Facebook page)
He had earlier been treated for septicaemia at Phra Mongkutklao Hospital for about six months. After his condition improved, he was discharged to stay at his home.
Born in Bangkok on Dec 4, 1922, he attended Samsen Witthayakhan and Wat Benjamabopit schools. He then enrolled in Kasetsart college, which later became Kasetsart University, and also studied at the Faculty of Agriculture at Maejo University in Chiang Mai.
Prof Rapee conducted many research studies on orchids and was recognised locally and internationally for his expertise in orchid breeding. He was widely known as "the father of Thai orchids" because of his contributions in the field.
The renowned botanist and horticulturist was a professor at Kasetsart University and served as its rector from 1972-80. He also served as a deputy agriculture minister in the Kriangsak Chomanan government.
His family will announce funeral details later.