Fiddlehead Ferns of Guxian

Fiddlehead Ferns of Guxian

　　Fiddlehead Ferns of Guxian

　　Fiddlehead ferns, a unique specialty of Guxian in southwestern Shanxi, are commonly known as “Dragon Head Vegetable.” They are a perennial herbaceous plant. The rootstock is thick and robust, with upright petioles. It does not flower but reproduces via spores. It often grows at the edges of forests or in sparse woods along sunny slopes. Its tender stems and leaves are edible. When curled, the stem resembles a Ruyi scepter, hence it is also called “Ruyi Vegetable.” It can also be used medicinally. The fresh rootstock is rich in starch and is commonly known as “fiddlehead starch” or “mountain starch,” which is also edible and can be used in brewing. Fresh fiddlehead ferns must be pickled before they can be stored, transported, or sold externally.

　　Fiddlehead ferns are highly nutritious, containing a variety of vitamins and minerals. They include 1.6% protein, 0.4% fat, 10% carbohydrates, as well as nutrients such as calcium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, and carotene. Fiddlehead ferns are not only an ingredient for high-end dishes at banquets but also have medicinal value. According to *Compendium of Materia Medica*, “It is sweet and mild, non-toxic, clears intense heat, benefits urinary function, induces sleep, and supplements deficiencies in the five organs.” In Japanese folklore, it is praised as the “precious snow fruit.”