Volcanic Rhododendrons from the Carboniferous Period

Volcanic Rhododendrons from the Carboniferous Period

Within the Hongxing Volcanic Rock National Geological Park lies a rugged expanse of volcanic lava gravel belts formed by eruptions one hundred million years ago, known as the "Xing’an Stone Sea." Surrounding this "Stone Sea" stretches a continuous forest of Xing’an rhododendrons spanning tens of miles. Locally, the Xing’an rhododendron is commonly referred to as "Dazi Xiang."

The leaves of the "Dazi Xiang" are glossy dark green, and its flowers are rose-red, standing out strikingly against the sea of green. It never blooms alone but gathers in clusters of dozens, forming large floral balls—appearing as one grand blossom from afar and a cluster of tiny flowers up close. Every mid-May, the vibrant rhododendrons burst into bloom against the black basalt, creating a stunning rhododendron sea that makes visitors feel as though they’ve stepped into a fairyland.