In this article, let’s explore the unique features of the Green Apricot tree and learn about its cultivation and care.
The apricot tree is known for its vibrant bloom during the Tet holiday. But how can we ensure that the apricot flowers are large and beautiful? Let’s find out.
1 Introduction to the Green Apricot Tree
The Green Apricot tree, scientifically known as Petrea volubilis, belongs to the Apricot family and is native to Central America and Mexico. It is a popular tree species with a unique and captivating history.
The botanical name Petrea pays homage to Princess Petre, renowned for her exquisite and distinctive botanical garden. The species name, volubilis, derives from Latin and means “a pair,” alluding to the flower’s unique structure.
Introduction to the Green Apricot Tree
2 Distinctive Features
The Green Apricot tree is a climbing plant with a rough, gray-brown trunk that can reach lengths of 10 to 12 meters. Its leaves are oval-shaped, broad, and measure 12 to 20 meters in length. The surface of the leaves has a textured feel, similar to sandpaper, which has led to their use in creating abrasive paper in some regions.
Distinctive Features of the Green Apricot Tree
The flowers of the Green Apricot tree boast a distinctive purple hue. They are characterized by a unique structure where the sepals and petals are arranged in two layers, resembling a double flower. The flowers typically grow in clusters, with each cluster bearing 20 to 30 blossoms.
3 Popular Varieties of Green Apricot Trees
In Vietnam, two main varieties of Green Apricot trees are prevalent: the Thai Apricot and the Dalat Green Apricot. Both produce purple-hued flowers, but the Thai variety offers several superior qualities. To distinguish between these two types, consider the following:
- Thai Green Apricot: This variety thrives in hot and cold climates and rarely sheds its leaves. Its resilience and ability to maintain its bloom make it a popular choice. Additionally, the Thai Green Apricot’s flowers exhibit a deeper shade of green.
- Dalat Green Apricot: Featuring lighter-colored leaves, this variety tolerates cold weather but struggles in hot conditions. It requires meticulous care for successful flowering, which is why it is less commonly cultivated.
Popular Varieties of Green Apricot Trees
4 Symbolism and Uses of the Green Apricot Tree
The Green Apricot tree holds a special place in culture and is believed to bring good fortune. It symbolizes wealth and prosperity, with its ability to endure harsh winter conditions representing strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
Symbolism of the Green Apricot Tree
Furthermore, the Green Apricot tree is associated with nobility and high status, as it is one of the four noble plants: pine, chrysanthemum, bamboo, and apricot (“Tùng, Cúc, Trúc, Mai” in Vietnamese).
The primary use of the Green Apricot tree is in ornamental gardening and landscaping, especially during the Tet holiday. Additionally, it has medicinal properties and is used in the treatment of various ailments such as chest pain, dry cough, sore throat, dizziness, and loss of appetite.
The flowers contain essential oils, including Borneol, Meratin, and Farnesol, which possess antibacterial properties and aid in bile secretion.
Uses of the Green Apricot Tree
5 Cultivation and Care of the Green Apricot Tree
Planting
The Green Apricot tree can be propagated through various methods, including grafting, seed germination, and cutting. While all techniques are relatively simple, cutting is the most popular choice as it preserves the desirable traits of the parent plant. When taking a cutting, select a small, healthy branch and cut it 3 to 4 centimeters from the main stem, ensuring you don’t cut too deeply into the wood.
Planting the Green Apricot Tree
Apply a mixture of soil, coconut fiber, and decomposed manure to the cut area, and water it regularly. After approximately three months, when the roots have developed, sever the branch from the parent plant and transplant it.
Care Instructions
Soil: Prepare a well-drained, nutrient-rich soil mix with adequate organic matter for the Green Apricot tree to thrive. You can enhance the soil by adding coconut fiber, peat moss, or compost to increase its fertility.
Caring for the Green Apricot Tree
Watering: Water the tree twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Ensure that the soil remains moist, as insufficient water can cause the tree to wither quickly.
Fertilization: For optimal growth, provide ample nitrogen-rich fertilizer to the Green Apricot tree. Recommended fertilizers include NPK, nitrogen, and potassium-based fertilizers.
Pruning: Regularly prune the tree, especially the less developed branches, to encourage the plant to channel its energy into producing longer and more beautiful flowers.
Pest and Disease Control: The Green Apricot tree exhibits excellent resistance to pests and diseases. However, for added protection and to promote stable and rapid growth, consider using pesticides.
6 Where to Buy Green Apricot Trees and Their Price Range
Where to Buy and Price Range
Green Apricot trees are available for purchase at plant nurseries and flower shops, with prices ranging from 150,000 to 3,000,000 VND, depending on the variety.
7 Stunning Images of Green Apricot Trees for Tet 2023
Green Apricot Tree with Five-Petaled Flowers in Full Bloom
Green Apricot Tree with Pointed Petals
Green Apricot Tree Bathed in Sunlight
Green Apricot Tree Climbing a Gate