Nanhua Matsutake

Nanhua Matsutake

Nanhua Matsutake is a product protected under geographical indication.

　　Matsutake is a delicacy among the wild fungi of Nanhua County, scientifically known as Tricholoma matsutake. The mushroom has a light yellowish-brown cap covered with fine chestnut-brown scales, slightly convex in the center, with a thick, sturdy stem. The flesh is snow-white, thick, and delicate, rich in crude protein, crude fat, crude fiber, and various vitamins. Not only is it delicious, but it also has functions such as improving digestion, expelling parasites, regulating qi, and resolving phlegm. It shows unique efficacy for diabetes and is an ideal health food for middle-aged and elderly people.

　　Nanhua County covers a land area of 2,343 square kilometers, of which 2.455 million mu (about 163,667 hectares) are forested land, accounting for 72.5% of the county's total area; the forest coverage rate is 62.5%. According to surveys by the Yunnan Academy of Forestry Survey and Design, Nanhua has over 1.7 million mu of forestland suitable for the growth and development of wild fungi. Nanhua Matsutake has a long history and distinctive quality and flavor, characterized by a wide distribution range, long production cycle, high yield, and excellent quality. Among the county’s 10 townships and 128 village (residential) committees, 61 villages are suitable for matsutake growth, covering an area of over 700,000 mu, making it one of the main producing areas of matsutake in Yunnan. The annual reserves of matsutake amount to about 450 tons, especially in areas such as Naotou Mountain in Wuji Township, Yuntai Mountain in Longchuan Township, and Longtan Mountain in Hongtupo Township, which are most suitable for matsutake cultivation. The fruiting season lasts from May to early December, and the production cycle is among the longest in the province.

　　Nanhua County has unique geographical advantages for the development of wild fungi. As of 2009, the cumulative area for forest closure and fungus cultivation reached 1.4 million mu, including 80,000 mu for conservation and breeding base construction, and 245,000 mu for contracted fungus cultivation. The trading volume of wild edible fungi reached 7,642 tons, with a transaction value of 309 million yuan. Among these, the county’s own production was 5,300 tons, with an output value of 216 million yuan. Both the output and value of wild fungi in the county increased by 774 tons and 8 million yuan, respectively, compared to 2008. The per capita income from wild fungi reached 995 yuan, making the wild edible fungi industry a new highlight in the county’s economic and social development.

　　The production area of Nanhua Matsutake covers the entire administrative region currently under the jurisdiction of Chuxiong City, Yunnan Province.