BLACKPINK’s Lisa Inspires Naming of Rare Plant Species

Lisa, a member of the world-renowned K-Pop group BLACKPINK, has inspired a new plant species to be named after her. The fragrant plant, deemed one of the rarest worldwide and with the highest risk of extinction, was discovered by researchers from Chiang Mai University in Thailand in Narathiwat province. Its scientific name, Friesodielsia Lalisae Damth, has been given the common name of “Bunga (Flower of) Lalisa” in honor of the BLACKPINK star.

Student researchers, particularly the discoverer Anissara Damthongdee, credit Lisa’s inspiring status with overcoming obstacles they faced while studying for their doctorate. Although nature and science are not within the BLACKPINK star’s domain, it’s evident that her influence is far-reaching and will continue to grow across different industries.

According to The Korea Times, the new species of flowering plant found in Thailand was named Bunga Lalisa, where “Bunga” means flower in Thai and Malay. The plant, belonging to the Annonaceae family, was discovered in the southern province of Narathiwat by researchers from Chiang Mai University’s Faculty of Science.

Researcher Anissara Damthongdee, the study’s author, named the critically endangered flower after Lisa, as the singer was a great inspiration during her doctorate studies. The team’s leader, Thanawat Chaowasku, said that the project aimed to investigate the taxonomy and evolution of rare plants in the Annonaceae family in Thailand. The project received support from the Thailand Science Research and Innovation Office and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation.

Lisa joined BLACKPINK in 2016 and is set to perform at the Rajamangala National Stadium in Bangkok on May 27 and 28. Despite her busy schedule, Lisa’s inspiring status has made a remarkable impact beyond the entertainment industry.