The ornamental Ochna serrulata, also known as the Carnival bush, is indigenous to South Africa. This small tree is beautiful all year round, it attracts birds and insects while displaying pretty flowers, colourful foliage and interesting fruit.

Growing to a height of 1 to 2 m, occasionally higher, Ochna serrulata is evergreen. The foliage often has a bronze tinge or light green colour, maturing into a darker, glossy green. This tree produces abundances of fragrant yellow flowers with red sepals and black or green fruit that attract birds and bees. After the petals are shed, the sepals and base of the flowers turn bright red and a ring of up to six shiny, oval fruits develop on the base of the flower. The fruit matures from green to glossy black, giving the alternative name of ‘Mickey Mouse’ bush as the black and red colours contrast sharply.

This slow growing shrub can tolerate light frost and occasional periods of drought. It grows well under semi-shade conditions. Ochna serrulata can be utilized as a hedge plant, it also does well in a container or as a bonsai subject.