Ochna integerrima: The Blooming Symbol of Spring and Prosperity
Ochna integerrima, commonly known as the Vietnamese Mickey-Mouse plant or Hoa Mai, is a flowering shrub or small tree from the Ochnaceae family. It holds deep cultural significance in Vietnam, especially during the Lunar New Year, where it is associated with good fortune, prosperity, and new beginnings. Known for its brilliant golden-yellow blooms, Ochna integerrima is celebrated for its beauty and the joy it brings to households during the spring season.
Botanical Description
Ochna integerrima is native to Southeast Asia, particularly Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and parts of southern China. It typically grows in tropical and subtropical climates, flourishing in well-drained, sandy soils, and can be found in forests, coastal areas, and home gardens.
Growth Habit: Ochna integerrima is a small tree or shrub that can reach heights between 2 to 7 meters. The tree has slender branches that are initially green but become brown and woody as the plant matures.
Leaves: The leaves are shiny, oval-shaped, and dark green, with serrated edges. They usually fall before the plant flowers, accentuating the bright blossoms.
Flowers: The showy flowers are the hallmark of Ochna integerrima, blooming in clusters of five petals. The bright yellow flowers appear in late winter and early spring, coinciding with the Lunar New Year celebration. The flowers later develop into fruit, which gives the plant its "Mickey-Mouse" nickname due to their shape resembling Mickey Mouse's face.
Fruits: After flowering, the tree bears small, berry-like drupes, initially green, but turning black when ripe. The sepals, which once held the flowers, remain attached and turn bright red, giving an appealing contrast to the shiny black seeds.
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