Shanxi Xiangguo

Shanxi Xiangguo

　　Xiangguo is a medicinal and aromatic tree species. It is a deciduous tree, growing to about 20 meters in height. Its leaves are brownish, and its branches are dense, tender, and flexible—bendable like a bow or curling like a snake. The tree blooms in March, and the Xiangguo fruits ripen in September. The fruits are greenish-yellow, with small ones measuring 3–5 cm in diameter and larger ones up to 8–10 cm. They have a mildly sour and slightly astringent taste, emit a refreshing fragrance that fills the room, and can remain fresh for several months without spoiling. It is mainly distributed in Chengguan and Dongye towns, as well as Hebei and Jialing townships in Yangcheng County, with over 170 trees producing approximately 5,000 pounds of fruit annually.