Twin apricot trees in Tan Phu

In recent years, on the occasion of every Lunar New Year (Tet), four apricot trees in Dong Nai province have become “bright stars” on social media. Two of these four “signature figures” are the twin apricot trees — the elder and the younger —located in former Phu Xuan commune, now Tan Phu commune (the other two notable yellow apricot trees are in Xuan Loc and Phu Loi communes).

A roughly 70-year-old apricot tree in Tan Phu commune bursts into brilliant yellow bloom during previous Lunar New Year festivals.

Beyond their “rare-to-find” size, what enhances the appeal of this twin pair is the homeowner’s open-the-door policy, welcoming visitors to come and take photos.

Two “golden spheres” for Tet

The twin yellow apricot trees belong to the family of Tran Liem in Phuong Mai hamlet, Tan Phu commune. Liem shared: “My mother tends the two trees with meticulous care every day. According to her, when the family settled here in 1957, they planted several apricot trees in their current positions from wild seedlings growing in the garden. Now, only the two oldest trunks remain. They are also keepsakes from the early days of my parents’ marriage.”

At present, the “elder tree” has a trunk circumference of 1.48 meters, a canopy spreading nearly 7 meters wide, and stands more than 7 meters tall from base to top. The “younger tree” is slightly smaller, with a trunk circumference of about 0.94 meters, a canopy over 5 meters wide, and a height of more than 5 meters.

Local residents take commemorative photos beside the smaller Tan Phu apricot tree during Tet 2025.

Each year, the two trees begin blooming gradually about one month before Tet. By the 15th day of the 12th lunar month, Liem’s family erects scaffolding and gathers to remove the leaves. During these moments, relatives and neighbors also come to lend a hand. Then, by New Year’s Eve, the two trees burst fully into bloom, forming two radiant “golden spheres” that light up the entire courtyard.

Nguyen Thi Xuan, a resident of Tan Phu commune, said: “My family has visited the yellow apricot trees in Xuan Loc and Phu Loi. Both are very large, beautifully shaped, and densely flowered. However, the two trees at Liem’s house are even more special, as they are not only ‘giant’ apricot trees but also stand on the same plot of land. This is quite rare, because besides careful tending, the space for growth is extremely important. Many households have decades-old apricot trees, but due to limited space and frequent pruning, even large trunks cannot develop expansive canopies, which is quite a pity.”

To date, the two apricot trees at Liem’s home are 70 years old, 10–20 years older than the other two giant apricot trees in the province. This further adds to their attraction.

Tran Liem shared: “Our wish is that the two trees remain healthy so that, with human care, they will continue bringing spring joy to local residents each New Year.”

A springtime destination for all

Alongside the striking image of the twin trees in full bloom, the homeowner’s warm hospitality toward visitors coming to take photos during Tet also contributes to the festive spirit.

Liem said that except when the whole family is out working, the gate remains closed. Otherwise, whenever someone is home and visitors wish to see the apricot trees, my family is always ready to welcome them. As Tet approaches and the flowers begin to bloom here and there, many young men and women dressed in festive attire ask to come in for photos. Therefore, from before Tet, my family keeps the gate open for visitors. On the first day of the Lunar New Year, the gate is open from 4 a.m. to welcome people coming to take pictures.

Tran Liem stands beside the larger apricot tree.

For this reason, on the first day of Tet each year, Liem’s family receives what is said to be the highest number of “first-footers” in the commune, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere. The family considers it a special New Year delight.

Dang Thi Phuong, a resident of Ta Lai commune, said: “For the past five Tet holidays, my family has not missed the chance to visit the twin yellow apricot trees in Tan Phu to capture spring memories. It is our annual outing tradition, as we do not have to travel far and the scenery is truly beautiful.”

To prevent visitors from accidentally breaking branches and to provide support for the heavier flower-laden limbs, last year Liem’s family installed a low fence about one meter high around the trees. Neighbors welcomed the initiative, acknowledging that while the family generously allows everyone to enjoy the space, it is also important to preserve the health of the treasured twin apricot trees.

Currently, Liem’s family is carefully tending the trees in preparation for the Lunar New Year of the Horse 2026, hoping that the “Tan Phu twin apricot trees” will once again bring springtime joy to the community.

By Van Truyen – Translated by M.Nguyet, Thu Ha