Xiangguan Honey Oranges

Xiangguan Honey Oranges

　　Grown in the unique soil and climate of the mountainous regions of Shimen County, these are a specialty of Hunan Province and a treasured fruit. The oranges ripen between September and October each year. They are flat-round in shape, uniformly sized, neatly arranged, and aesthetically pleasing, with individual fruits weighing between 150–170 grams. The rind is golden yellow, bright, smooth, thin yet tough, and easy to peel. The flesh consists of 10–13 segments, juicy, seedless, easy to separate, high in sugar content, sweet and fragrant with a rich flavor. They are rich in various nutrients such as amino acids, aromatic oils, vitamins, potassium, calcium, selenium, and phosphorus, making them of excellent quality. The trees remain lush and verdant all year round, with dense foliage. In spring and summer, they are covered with clusters of white blossoms, and in autumn, the branches are heavy with fruit, making them an outstanding species for greening. Since 1968, the fruit has been continuously exported for decades, selling well in over ten countries and regions including Europe, America, and Southeast Asia. Starting in 1987, it was selected for supply to the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing. In 1989, it was honored as a “National Quality Fruit,” and has won multiple national and provincial awards for high-quality citrus. Deeply loved by consumers, it remains in high demand. The fruit has brought fame to the region, and the region has brought glory to the fruit. Shimen County has risen to become the largest early-maturing honey orange production and export base in China. By the end of 2000, the county had an planting area of 300,000 mu and produced 200,000 tons of fruit. It was recognized by the China Citrus Society as the “No. 1 Early-Maturing Honey Orange County in China.”