Chicken Flower

Chicken Flower

　　In Nankun Mountain, there is a shrub commonly known as the "chicken flower tree." It has a clustered trunk resembling that of a mulberry tree. Both the leaves and flowers of the chicken flower tree are edible delicacies. The leaves are consumed in spring, while the flowers are enjoyed in summer.

　　When spring warms the land, tender buds sprout from the bare branches. These young shoots are picked to make soup, which tastes sweet, fresh, and smooth, with a faint flavor reminiscent of chicken broth. By summer, the tree blossoms with uniquely colored and shaped flowers. The purple-red flowers resemble trumpets, while the white ones look like camellias. Preparing a vegetarian dish of "chicken flowers" creates a natural recipe and a delightful aesthetic experience.