Every year, as the festive season approaches, a myriad of flowers bloom, but only one earns the title of “King of Tet Flowers.” That flower is the exquisite Nhat Chi Mai. What makes this flower so special, and why is it given such a prestigious name? Let’s find out!
1 Unveiling the Mystery of Nhat Chi Mai
Nhat Chi Mai, also known as White Apricot, Double-flowered Apricot, or Cold Apricot, has long been a favorite subject of ancient poets. In some regions, it is also called Red Nhat Chi Mai or White Nhat Chi Mai, depending on the color of its blooms.
Nhat Chi Mai in full bloom
Belonging to the rose family, with the scientific name Prunus mume Sieb & Zucc, this flower originates from cold regions with low winter temperatures.
In Vietnam, Nhat Chi Mai was once nominated to be the national flower. Furthermore, it has the honor of being included in the list of the “Top Ten Famous Flowers” worldwide.
Nhat Chi Mai boasts a unique beauty with its sharp yet delicate features, setting it apart from all other flowers. The transformation of its buds into blossoms and then into withering petals creates a captivating and ever-changing palette of colors.
From delicate pinkish-white buds, it blooms into pristine white flowers. But that’s not the end—as the flowers start to wither, they turn red before finally falling from the branch.
One fascinating fact about Nhat Chi Mai is that it blooms twice during the spring. The first bloom occurs around Tet, but it is only a minor bloom. The main bloom happens in February, when other flowers like apricot and peach blossoms start to fade. That’s when Nhat Chi Mai puts on a new display of pure white flowers.
The captivating beauty of Nhat Chi Mai
2 The Many Uses of Nhat Chi Mai
As the “King of Tet Flowers,” Nhat Chi Mai is primarily grown for decorative purposes during the festive season. Bonsai versions of the flower are also popular for beautifying gardens. Additionally, it serves as a valuable medicinal herb in traditional medicine.
In traditional Vietnamese medicine, it is used to treat various ailments such as fever, cough, skin inflammation, mild burns, dizziness, and respiratory infections. In Western medicine, it is known to promote bile secretion and inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria.
The medicinal uses of Nhat Chi Mai
3 The Symbolic Significance of Nhat Chi Mai
Each part of the Nhat Chi Mai flower holds a different symbolic meaning. The rugged and gnarled trunk and branches represent the image of a righteous, strong, and courageous man.
On the other hand, the flowers with their subtle fragrance evoke the image of a delicate, graceful young woman in the bloom of youth, exuding a pure and captivating beauty.
This contrast between the sturdy trunk and the delicate flowers justifies its place among the “Top Ten Famous Flowers.” Moreover, it symbolizes the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people, who are willing to sacrifice themselves for the integrity of their nation.
The symbolic significance of Nhat Chi Mai
4 Cultivation and Care Tips for Nhat Chi Mai
Growing a healthy Nhat Chi Mai requires considerable effort, knowledge, experience, and attention to detail. However, if you wish to display this flower during Tet, you can purchase it beforehand and care for it until the festive season arrives.
Here are some essential factors to consider during the cultivation and care process:
Soil:
While Nhat Chi Mai can survive in barren soil, it is advisable to mix in some compost and coconut coir to enhance the soil’s texture and help the young plant’s roots establish themselves more easily.
Propagation:
Since Nhat Chi Mai does not produce fruit, propagation is done through cuttings. Simply take a cutting from the mother plant and plant it in the prepared soil, watering it regularly until it takes root and produces new shoots.
Watering:
Water the plant only 2-3 times a week, providing just enough water to keep the soil moist. Overwatering can be detrimental.
Fertilization:
There is no need to over-fertilize. Fertilization is only necessary when pruning to encourage new growth or when the plant needs a boost.
Cultivation and care tips for Nhat Chi Mai
Light:
Place the plant in an area that receives ample sunlight and wind to promote its growth and strength. When the plant is still young and fragile, provide some shade during intense sunlight or strong winds.
Pruning:
Pruning is crucial for shaping the plant and encouraging more blooms. Just before the flowering season, prune away some of the leaves and cut back branches that have already flowered to stimulate new growth.
Pest and Disease Control:
Nhat Chi Mai is susceptible to sap flow and fungal infections. If you notice any mealybugs, spray the plant with a suitable fungicide. If the plant is oozing sap, adjust your watering habits, as this is often a sign of overwatering.
5 A Collection of Stunning Nhat Chi Mai Images
Nhat Chi Mai in full bloom
Nhat Chi Mai—a perfect choice for Tet decorations
Nhat Chi Mai adds elegance to any garden
Nhat Chi Mai growing on a wooden trellis
Nhat Chi Mai bonsai—a miniature work of art
A closer look at the beauty of Nhat Chi Mai
Nhat Chi Mai truly lives up to its name as the “King of Tet Flowers.” Decorating your home with a pot of this flower not only adds beauty but also brings good luck and prosperity. We hope that with the right care, your Nhat Chi Mai will bloom magnificently this Tet.
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