Laoshan Cudgel

Laoshan Cudgel

　　Laoshan Cudgel, scientifically known as Lindera umbellata, belongs to the Lauraceae family and the Lindera genus. It is native to the areas along the Bashui River and around Li’anzi, with a limited distribution and relatively scarce numbers. This plant is a shrub that typically grows on sunny slopes with brown forest soil and good drainage. Its leaves are elliptical with pointed tips, and its flowers are umbrella-shaped, blooming in yellow in April with five petals and drupe fruits. The branches are uniquely twisted, with a grayish-white bark, hard and fine-grained wood that is rich in toughness and has a gingery-spicy aroma. Around the time of Frost’s Descent, it is dug out, the bark is peeled off, and then the roots are carved into shapes such as dragons, phoenixes, and cranes according to their natural forms. Sometimes inscriptions are engraved on the trunks, inlaid with copper, silver, jadeite, and other materials, followed by several coats of lacquer or tung oil. After drying in the shade, the whole piece turns a glossy reddish-brown, shining brilliantly with an antique and elegant charm. Many elderly people in Laoshan use it as a walking stick, treasuring it as a beloved item, hence it has been bestowed with the beautiful name “Laoshan Cudgel.”