A small tree with masses of yellow flowers in spring, Ochna integerrima is commonly called the Yellow Mai Flower or ‘Hoa Mai’. It grow naturally in Vietnam and nearby areas and is associated with the Vietnamese New Year. In the southern areas it is also known as hoàng mai .
It is a plant that symbolise a number of things including love, wealth and very roots of the Vietnamese people.
The flowers are used to decorate home for the Tet Holiday which is the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, Spring Festival or Tết Nguyên Đán’.
Although it will grow to be a small tree, it is also used in bonsai and is easily pruned to shape and size.
Care
In a warm sunny position and a humus rich soil that retains some moisture over summer this is an easy care plant. It can also be grown in containers although as with most plants, in containers it will require regular watering.
Propagation
Easy stem cuttings, also possible from seeds. Seedling plants are preferred as they seem to be more vigorous. From seed Ochna integerrima can take 2 – 3 years to flower. Cutting grown plants can often flower in the first season.
Summary Information
- Botanical Name – Ochna integerrima
- Common Name – Mai flower, Lucky Tree, Vietnamese Mickey Mouse plant, Hoa Mai.
- Family – Ochnaceaee
- Origins – Vietnam and surrounding areas.
- Height – To around 6 metres.
- Spread – To around 3 m
- Growth rate – Medium to Slow.
- Position – Light shade to Full sun.
- Soil – Free draining humus rich with some moisture.
- Flowers – Yellow.
- Flowering Time – Spring
- Foliage – Deep green.
- Frost tolerant – No
- Drought tolerant – No