Species Mickey Mouse plant
glossy, elongated, green leaves with toothed edges, shiny, red, small flowers with glossy, red, round centers, and brown, woody stems

Mickey Mouse plant

Ochna serrulata

The Mickey Mouse plant, also known as Ochna serrulata, is an evergreen shrub with yellow daisy-like flowers and black berries. Its name comes from the large yellow petals resembling the ears of Mickey Mouse. The leaves of this plant are glossy and oblong shaped, growing up to 4 inches and resembling those of hibiscus. Mickey Mouse plants also produce an orange, aromatic, and edible fruit that can be made into an herbal tea. The plant’s hardiness and striking shape make it an ideal addition to any garden, as it is sure to capture attention from those who see it.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Stem Propagation,Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Air Layering Propagation,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

9 - 11

Flowers:

Flowers are yellow and calyx is red Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Fruits:

Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Salt Tolerant:

Yes

Tropical:

Yes

watering

Watering for your Mickey Mouse plant (Ochna serrulata) should be done approximately once or twice a week depending on the soil's moisture levels. Make sure the soil is kept moist, but not soggy. It's ok to let the top couple of inches of soil dry out before watering. If you water too frequently the roots can become waterlogged, leading to root rot. Aim to use lukewarm water and water around the edges of the pot to ensure even coverage. Avoid getting the flowers and leaves wet as this can cause them to become diseased. Remember to keep an eye on the soil for signs of drying out. During hot weather, you may need to water your Mickey Mouse plant more often.

sunlight

The Mickey Mouse plant is a native plant to the tropical and subtropical regions of South Africa and southern Africa, and therefore requires plenty of sunlight throughout the day to thrive. It prefers full sun and should be exposed to direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day to stay healthy. Depending on the season and location, the amount of sunlight the plant needs may vary. For example, in summer it may require up to 8 hours per day of direct sunlight.

pruning

Pruning of the Mickey Mouse Plant is recommended in late winter to early spring, when the plant is still dormant. During this time, remove any dead branches or limbs, as well as any that appear to be damaged or diseased. Pruning should be minimal; only remove a portion of the limbs and branches that need to be trimmed. Be sure to use sharp pruning scissors and make clean cuts at a 45-degree angle.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The Ochna serrulata, or Mickey Mouse plant, typically begins to produce fruit in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

The Mickey Mouse plant typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Starts Flowering

The Mickey Mouse plant typically starts flowering in late spring, usually in May or June.

Harvest Fruit

The Ochna serrulata, or Mickey Mouse plant, typically begins to produce fruit in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map