Camellia reticulata of Yunnan

Camellia reticulata of Yunnan

　　Camellia reticulata of Yunnan is famous worldwide for its tall and vigorous trees, lush and dense foliage, large flowers, vivid and bright colors, a rich variety of cultivars, and an extended blooming season. As early as the Ming Dynasty, it was said that “the camellias of Yunnan are unmatched in beauty.” The Ming Dynasty poet Yang Shen composed a verse in their praise: “In early January, southern Yunnan greets spring early; camellia trees bloom in unison, outshining even the most charming peach and plum blossoms, decorating the land beautifully — everywhere is a domain of rosy clouds.” In more recent times, the famed modern writer Guo Moruo also wrote a poem in admiration: “It is often said the camellia is our provincial flower; only now do I see the city veiled in its rosy glow. Everyone praises the peony, but to me, the peony cannot rival the camellia.”

　　According to experts, Tengchong is one of the key regions where native populations of Camellia reticulata in Yunnan originated. Due to its unique climatic environment, it provides vast opportunities for the evolutionary variation of plant species. Through the hard work and exploration of horticultural professionals and enthusiasts, many traditional camellia cultivars of high ornamental value have been developed (such as Hen Tian Gao, Tong Zi Mian, Jiu Xin Shi Ba Ban, Song Zi Lin, Da Ma Nao, etc.). In recent years, even more unique camellia variants have gained recognition from experts (such as Mu Dan Kui, Xue Jiao, Yun Feng Cha, Yun Zhen Cha, Tai He Mu Dan, Tong Yan, etc.). The blooming periods of these various varieties range from October of the current year to April of the following year. When China’s traditional festival — the Spring Festival — arrives, trees are covered in a riot of vibrant blooms in various colors, competing in splendor and predicting a flourishing year ahead for those who cultivate them. This adds even more festive joy to the celebration, captivating and enchanting all who see them.

　　It is particularly worth mentioning that, according to expert analysis, red camellia oil is rich in a variety of amino acids essential to the human body, making it a rare and natural edible vegetable oil. Variants of the camellia flower also retain the natural attributes of the parent plant, and the scent and fragrance emitted by their plants and blossoms provide beneficial effects for the human respiratory system.