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What is Mai Cuc? Where to Buy This Beautiful Mai Tree at an Affordable Price?

Join us as we delve into the enchanting world of the Mai Cuc, a revered plant among avid gardeners and enthusiasts alike. In this exploration, we will uncover the secrets of this coveted tree, including its sought-after characteristics and the exclusive locations where it can be acquired. Prepare to be captivated by the allure of the Mai Cuc as we guide you through its enchanting journey.

Administrator

14 July, 2024

Ochna integerrima, commonly known as the Vietnamese Mickey Mouse plant, is a popular choice for Lunar New Year decorations in Southern Vietnamese households. With various types and prices, Ochna integerrima, or simply Mai, is a must-have for the festive season. Let’s delve into the world of Mai Cuc, a unique variety of this beloved plant.

1What is Mai Cuc?

Mai Cuc is a woody plant with multiple branches and origins in Binh Dinh, Vietnam. Its distinctive feature is the red shoots, setting it apart from other Mai varieties. The flowers of Mai Cuc have thin, small petals arranged in three layers, blooming continuously until they wither, lacking stamens and pistils.

Ochna integerrima flowers

The top layer of petals curls up like a chrysanthemum, giving it a unique appearance. Depending on the nutrition and care, the flower can produce more or fewer petals, with well-cared-for plants producing up to 150 petals. Mai Cuc is considered a rare and exotic ornamental plant.

The unique curling petals of Mai Cuc

While Mai Cuc has gained popularity, gardeners in Thu Duc and Ben Tre provinces, who are propagating and selling these plants, admit that it is quite challenging to care for. Once purchased, it is difficult to maintain the plant for the following year, as it tends to suffer from weakness and a lack of buds.

2 The Significance of Ochna Integerrima during Tet Holiday

Just as pink peach blossoms symbolize Tet in Northern Vietnam, vibrant yellow Ochna integerrima flowers represent the festive season in the South. These resilient plants endure storms, firmly rooted in the soil, reflecting the hardworking nature of the Vietnamese people. Ochna integerrima embodies perseverance, thriving through challenges to bloom during each person’s “spring.” The golden hue of its flowers signifies prosperity, wealth, and nobility.

The significance of Ochna Integerrima during Tet Holiday

3Price and Availability of Mai Cuc

Due to its rarity and the challenges associated with cultivation and care, Mai Cuc commands a premium price, twice that of common Mai varieties.

Mai Cuc prices vary depending on the type and size

A young Mai Cuc plant, approximately 30cm in height, costs around 150,000 VND (<$6 USD).

For a larger plant, about 1.5m tall, the price can reach up to 3,900,000 VND (<$165 USD).

Mai Cuc can be found at specialized nurseries

To acquire a Mai Cuc plant, visit dedicated Mai nurseries in Thu Duc and Ben Tre provinces, where you can select the perfect plant to adorn your home for Tet.

4Caring for Mai Cuc

Temperature

Mai Cuc thrives in temperatures ranging from 25-30 degrees Celsius. Deviations from this range can impact the timing of its flowering.

Soil Type

While Mai Cuc isn’t too particular about soil type, it requires nutrient-rich, well-aerated soil with excellent drainage. Suitable soil options include loamy soil, sandy loam, and alluvial soil.

Ideal soil and temperature conditions for Mai Cuc

Watering

To ensure lush growth and timely flowering, proper watering is essential.

During the dry season, water your Mai Cuc plant twice a day:

– In the morning, between 8 and 9 a.m., give the plant a thorough watering.

– Provide a supplemental watering between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. to replenish the soil’s moisture content. On hot days, consider watering the surrounding area to help cool the garden.

In the rainy season,

If it rains heavily, there is no need to water your Mai Cuc. However, on dry days, check the soil moisture, and if necessary, water once during noon to maintain adequate hydration.

Pruning Mai Cuc

Proper watering and pruning techniques for Mai Cuc

Depending on the weather conditions, it is advisable to prune your Mai Cuc 18-20 days before Tet. Prior to pruning, refrain from watering for 3-4 days to prevent shocking the plant with sudden dehydration.

Post-Tet Care for Mai Cuc

After Tet, it is crucial to care for your Mai Cuc to ensure its recovery and promote blooming in subsequent years.

Trimming Mai Cuc

Once the flowers have withered, trim away old and weak branches to encourage new growth.

Cleaning your Mai Cuc

Caring for your Mai Cuc after Tet

After trimming, thoroughly clean the plant to remove any mold, bacteria, larvae, or insects that may be present.

For potted plants, remove the plant from its container, cover the roots with a plastic bag, and use a strong spray of water to dislodge any pests. Replace the old soil and clean the pot to prepare for new soil.

Replacing the Soil

After cleaning, replenish the plant with fresh, nutrient-rich soil. Refrain from fertilizing at this stage to avoid shocking the plant and damaging its roots.

5 Captivating Images of Mai Cuc for Tet 2023

Ochna integerrima brightens up the Tet Holiday

The vibrant yellow flowers of Mai Cuc

Ochna integerrima, a beloved plant in Vietnamese countryside

Resilient Ochna integerrima, a symbol of perseverance

The golden flowers symbolize prosperity and wealth

We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights into Mai Cuc, enabling you to choose the perfect plant to embellish your home this Tet.

Frequently asked questions

Mai Cuc is a beautiful and unique tree that is native to Vietnam. It is known for its stunning yellow flowers that bloom during the spring season, often around Tet Holiday. The scientific name of this tree is Ochna integerrima, and it is also commonly known as the Mickey Mouse Plant or Five-petaled Yellow Mai.

You can purchase a Mai Cuc tree from local nurseries or garden centers in Vietnam, especially in the Southern regions where the climate is suitable for its growth. Online plant shops and marketplaces are also great options, as they often offer a wider variety of plants and convenient delivery services.