In the Chinese mainland and around the world, the peony is blooming like never before! Known as "the king of flowers" 🌸, this cherished emblem of traditional Chinese culture lights up festivals in cities like Heze in Shandong Province and Luoyang in Henan Province every April.
The vibrant events draw waves of visitors, supercharging local tourism with an energy that's as exciting as your favorite concert or festival. Beyond its beauty, the peony offers a treasure trove of benefits – its roots yield potent medicinal extracts, its petals brew aromatic teas, and its seeds produce nourishing oil.
In Heze, a major hub of the peony trade, more than 260 peony-derived products are crafted and exported to dozens of countries and regions worldwide. With a total output value reaching 13 billion yuan (about $1.8 billion) in 2024 and over 500,000 jobs created, this industry perfectly blends ancient tradition with modern economic success. 🚀
Whether you're a culture buff, a business enthusiast, or simply curious about unique traditions, the peony industry's story is a vibrant example of how timeless beauty can drive today’s global trends.
Reference(s):
How does the peony industry bloom around China and the world?
cgtn.com