muk6 min4木棉
Jyutpingmuk6 min4
Yalemuhk mìhn
Definition
Cotton tree (Bombax ceiba), a tall tree with red flowers that is an important Cantonese cultural symbol.
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How it's used
Often referred to as the hero tree due to its tall, straight trunk and vibrant red flowers that resemble a hero's spirit. The dried flowers are a staple in traditional Cantonese herbal soups for their ability to clear dampness from the body. You will frequently see them scattered on the ground in spring, which is a signature sight in many older Hong Kong neighborhoods.
Measure word
po1樖pōExamples
The cotton tree flowers bloom beautifully in spring.
Do you know why the cotton tree is also called the hero tree?
Related words
Common mistake
Learners often confuse the tree name with the cotton material itself, but remember that the tree is specifically valued for its medicinal flowers rather than its fluffy fruit fibers.
Grammar color guide
Noun
Verb
Adjective
Adverb
Pronoun
Classifier
Particle
Connector
Grammar guides
- Aspect markersCantonese has no tenses, but it does have aspect markers. Learn how zo2, gwo3, gan2, and hai2 dou6 show completion, experience, and ongoing action.
- In 30 secondsThe whole language at a glance. No tenses, no plurals, six tones, sentence particles. Read this before you dive into any specific topic.
- ParticlesSentence particles add tone, emotion, and nuance. Learn the most common particles in Cantonese and how to use them.
