A traditional farming system for a precious medicinal citrus fruit from Maoming, with a history stretching back over a millennium, has been nominated for national agricultural heritage status in China.
Fresh Huajuhong fruits
The "Huazhou Huajuhong Farming System" from Guangdong's Maoming City has been included in the candidate list for China's Eighth Batch of Important Agricultural Heritage Systems and is currently undergoing a public review process.
The cultivation of Huajuhong dates back to the Jin Dynasty (266-420 AD) and was historically offered as a tribute to the imperial court. The system encapsulates traditional wisdom such as selective breeding on Baoling Mountain and ecological crop rotation, which help preserve the fruit's unique medicinal compounds.
The Huajuhong growing area is rich in historical and cultural ambience.
Today, this traditional system supports a robust modern industry cluster with an annual output value exceeding 10 billion yuan. The cultivation area of Huajuhong in Huazhou now surpasses 8,600 hectares, and the industry chain has developed approximately 200 value-added products, which are exported to over 30 countries and regions worldwide. It serves as a vital industry for rural revitalization and increasing farmers' income.
Reporter & Photo: Yang Jianxiong
Editor: Huang Qini, James Campion, Shen He
