In recent days, a stunning red-leafed tree in Thon 10A, Loc Thanh Commune, Bao Lam District, Lam Dong Province, has captured attention on social media. Standing tall with a wide canopy, the tree’s naturally vibrant red leaves create a breathtaking sight.

Nguyen Thi Hong Tam, a visitor from Da Lat, traveled approximately 90 kilometers to witness the rare beauty of this tree.

"I saw pictures of it last year but didn't have the chance to visit. When I heard the leaves had turned red again this year, I rushed to see it in its most beautiful state," she shared.

Tam was awestruck by the tree’s vivid colors. "It’s mesmerizing. Nature is truly magical. The tree looks like something out of a fantasy movie," she said.

A rare natural wonder

The tree is located on private land owned by a family from Ho Chi Minh City, who use the property as a retreat rather than a commercial venue.

According to Dat, the caretaker of the property, the tree is a tram la do (red-leafed Syzygium or Loi Khoai), a naturally growing species estimated to be 25–30 years old.

Each spring, the tree sheds its old leaves and sprouts new red foliage, which gradually changes to yellow, then orange, before finally turning green.

The period when the leaves are a uniform, fiery red lasts only about two weeks. This year, the tree is expected to be at its most vibrant between February 20–27.

The tree has a broad canopy and unique, elongated leaves resembling bird tails. While red-leafed tram trees grow sporadically in the mountains of Bao Lam, few reach such a size or display such intense coloration.

A growing attraction

The tree first gained public attention in 2023 when visitors stumbled upon it and shared photos online. Since then, travelers from all over have made the journey - sometimes hundreds of kilometers - to see it firsthand.

Given the increasing number of visitors and the tree’s short-lived red phase, the owners have allowed Dat to open the garden to guests. Visitors are free to admire the tree and take photos in the surrounding area.

"I water the tree daily and spray insect repellent monthly, but overall, caring for it isn’t too complicated. This year, the leaves have turned an even more brilliant shade of red," Dat said.

During the past weekend, the tree attracted 50–70 visitors per day, while weekdays saw around 40.

Tips for visiting

Nguyen Xuan Vinh, who visited the site on February 17, suggests that travelers arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best photos.

"Midday sunlight can be too harsh, making it difficult to capture the tree’s true colors. Early morning visits can also be paired with cloud-hunting for an even more magical experience," he advised.

To reach the site, travelers can follow National Highway 55. Near Loc Thanh Market, they should take the road leading to Linh Son Zen Monastery. The towering red tree stands out, making it easy to spot along the way. However, visitors should be prepared for steep roads.

Vinh also recommends combining the trip with a visit to Bao Loc, Lam Dong, during this season, which is ideal for cloud-hunting and admiring the blooming ken hong (pink trumpet flowers).