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African bird's-eye bush
Scientific Name: Ochna mossambicensis
Family: Ochnaceae
Category: Dicot
Growth: Shrub, Tree
Duration: Perennial
Other Names:
Ochna serrulata: The Mickey Mouse Plant and Bird's Eye Bush
Ochna serrulata, a member of the Ochnaceae family, is a fascinating plant known for its unique appearance and various common names. It has captured the attention of gardeners and nature enthusiasts alike.
Considerations for Pets and Children:
- Some sources refer to this plant as a shrub.
- Fruits are produced.
Common Names:
- Mickey Mouse Plant (or Mickey Mouse Bush)
- Bird's Eye Bush
- Small-leaved plane
- Carnival Ochna
- Carnival Bush
- Cat's-eyes
Taxonomy and Nomenclature:
- Scientific Name: Ochna serrulata
- Family: Ochnaceae (DC)
- Synonyms: Ochna atropurpurea, Ochna kirkii, Ochna thomasiana, Ochna multiflora, Ochna mossambicensis (note that some sources treat *O. mossambicensis* as a distinct species)
Distribution and Habitat:
- Native to southern Africa, particularly South Africa.
- Specifically, the east coast of subtropical southern Africa.
- Found in the understory.
Ecological Role:
- Planted in southern African gardens.
- Considered an invasive species in some regions.
Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits:
- Described as an ornamental garden plant.
- Can be a shrub.
- Fragrant and short-lived yellow flowers that resemble buttercups.
- Birds Eye bushes will mature and fruit very quickly, it takes about between 90- 120 days and the bushes are known to last several years.
Quirky Facts:
- The plant earned the name "Mickey Mouse bush" because of its flowers and subsequent fruit development that are reminiscent of Mickey Mouse's face.