Volcanic Rhododendrons from the Carboniferous Period

Volcanic Rhododendrons from the Carboniferous Period

Within the Hongxing Volcanic Rock National Geological Park lies a vast expanse of volcanic lava gravel belts formed by eruptions one hundred million years ago, stretching as far as the eye can see, known as the "Xing'an Stone Sea." Surrounding the "Stone Sea" is a continuous forest of Xing'an rhododendrons stretching for over ten miles. Locally, the Xing'an rhododendron is commonly called "Dazi Xiang."

The leaves of the "Dazi Xiang" are dark green and glossy, while its flowers are rose-red, standing out vividly against the sea of green. It never blooms singly but gathers in dozens to form a large flower ball—seen from afar as one big blossom, but up close as a cluster of small flowers. Every mid-May, the vibrant rhododendrons bloom exuberantly against the black basalt, creating a stunning rhododendron ocean. Visitors here feel as if they’ve stepped into a fairyland.