Flowers of the alluvial plains

Not as dazzlingly glamorous as the flowers of Da Lat, nor possessing the delicate, dreamy beauty of the flower-covered hills of Moc Chau, the flowers in the Mekong Delta's orchards have a very unique charm: rustic yet vibrant, simple yet warm. It's a beauty born from the alluvial soil, the sunshine and wind, and the gentle rhythm of life in this land at the end of the Mekong River.

The Southwestern region of Vietnam doesn't favor delicate flower colors or subtle fragrances. Flowers here typically feature "warm colors": the vibrant yellow of marigolds and chrysanthemums; the deep red of cockscomb and firecracker flowers; and the lush green of kalanchoe...

These vibrant colors are present throughout the gardens, riverbanks, and Tet markets, creating a unique spring atmosphere in the Mekong Delta. Looking at the flowers of the Mekong Delta, one might not be captivated at first sight, but the more one gazes, the more familiar and close they feel, just like the people of this region.

Flowers from the alluvial plains are rarely mentioned for their fragrance, but are cherished for their names and meanings. Marigolds symbolize wishes for health and longevity. Chrysanthemums are a blessing for peace and well-being. Money flowers evoke hope for a prosperous new year. Yellow apricot blossoms, an indispensable flower in every Southern Vietnamese family during Tet (Lunar New Year), carry the aspiration for blessings, good fortune, and success. Therefore, a potted ornamental plant is not only for beautifying the living space, but also a place to entrust hopes and wishes for a peaceful and fulfilling new year.

The Tet holiday in Southern Vietnam is a beloved time, with pots of marigolds displaying their vibrant, warm yellow blossoms.

In the days leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year), the flower villages of Sa Dec ( Dong Thap province) and Cho Lach (Vinh Long province, formerly Ben Tre province) are more bustling than ever. Boats carrying flowers travel up and down the canals, bringing the colors of spring to all provinces and cities. Flowers follow the water to the cities, to every home, carrying with them the soul of the alluvial plains. Whether in the city or the countryside, just a pot of chrysanthemums on the porch, a branch of apricot blossoms inside the house, and the atmosphere of Tet in Southern Vietnam is clearly present.

For people in the Mekong Delta, Tet (Lunar New Year) doesn't need to be overly elaborate. A clean yard, a tidy altar, a pot of sticky rice cakes simmering over a fire, and a few pots of fresh flowers are enough to feel the arrival of spring. Flowers are present quietly but enduringly, just like the way people in the riverine region celebrate Tet: not ostentatious, not noisy, but deeply meaningful and lasting.

Perhaps because they are nourished by the alluvial soil, the flowers of the Mekong Delta possess a remarkable resilience. Whether under scorching sun or pouring rain, they still thrive, blooming in the right season at the right time. Just like the people here, accustomed to facing the changing tides and weather, they still maintain their gentle and optimistic spirit.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of modern life, where many traditional values ​​are in danger of fading, the potted flowers of the alluvial plains still quietly play their role: connecting people with nature, with memories of Tet (Vietnamese New Year) of yesteryear, and with faith in the good things to come. And every spring, in those vibrant yellow and red hues, people recognize a very dear Mekong Delta – where flowers bloom not only to be admired, but to remind us of the peacefulness and resilience of life.

HEAVENLY BLUE

Source: https://www.sggp.org.vn/hoa-mien-phu-sa-post836420.html