Certain types of trees are often associated with a particular spirit. For example, the banana tree is inhabited by Nang Mai, a female spirit, or the Nang Tanee; the hopea sangal trees are inhabited by Nang Takian.
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Ton Mai
Ton Mai, or phi Ton Mai, are spirits that reside in trees. There are two classes: benevolent and malevolent ones. Throughout Thailand trees are wrapped with cloth, particularly near temples, signifying that a spirit inhabits that tree. Such trees may not be cut down without warning and giving the spirit ample time to find another tree to inhabit.