Volotour Greetings! Today, Let’s Talk About Hoa Sữa
Hoa Sữa – The Fragrance of Memories
Hoa sữa (Alstonia scholaris) is an evergreen tree species belonging to the Apocynaceae family. It is commonly found in tropical Asian countries, including Vietnam. This tree is closely associated with Hanoi’s autumn and many other cities due to its distinctive fragrance.
1. Characteristics of Hoa Sữa
Tree appearance: A woody tree, 10–20m tall, with a broad canopy.
Leaves: Lanceolate-shaped, growing in whorls (5–7 leaves per whorl).
Flowers: Small, white or off-white, growing in clusters.
Fruits: Long and slender, containing seeds with fine hairs that help with wind dispersal.
2. Fragrance and Its Effects
Hoa sữa has a unique, strong fragrance, which is most intense at night.
Its scent can be pleasant to many but may also cause headaches or discomfort if inhaled excessively.
3. Distribution
Commonly found in northern and central Vietnam, especially in Hanoi and Hue.
Additionally, it grows in India, China, Thailand, and other Southeast Asian countries.
4. Significance and Applications
A symbol of Hanoi’s autumn: Hoa sữa evokes memories of Hanoi’s streets in autumn, with its fragrance filling the air.
Urban shade tree: Often planted along sidewalks and in parks to provide shade.
Medicinal uses: The tree’s latex is used in traditional medicine to treat fever and diarrhea.
