Yacon

Yacon

　　Yacon originates from the high Andes mountains of South America and has been a traditional root vegetable of the indigenous people for over 500 years. Songming enjoys an average annual sunshine duration of 2,073 hours, an average annual temperature of 14°C, a frost-free period of 222 days, and an average annual rainfall of 992 mm. These favorable climatic conditions provide an ideal environment for yacon cultivation, making it the most ecologically suitable region for growing yacon. According to He Dayong, an expert on yacon research at Yunnan University: “Since yacon was introduced to China, as our understanding and utilization of it have grown, we’ve discovered that it is a modern ‘green gold’ with vast ecological and economic potential.” Yacon contains over 20 essential amino acids for the human body, as well as trace elements such as magnesium, calcium, zinc, iron, and potassium. It boasts high nutritional value and serves multiple functions—as a fruit, a vegetable, and a health supplement. Recognized as a premium, pollution-free, natural third-generation fruit, yacon is rare in both domestic and international markets, offering tremendous prospects for cultivation.

In 2004, Songming County guided the selection and planting of 250 acres of yacon. At that time, only five provinces across the country were experimenting with yacon cultivation, with a total planted area of about 600 acres, making Songming’s trial planting area account for 42% of the national total. Through four years of planting practice, farmers have reaped benefits from yacon production, which has continuously boosted their enthusiasm. Yacon cultivation has emerged as a new, income-boosting industry in Songming County. By 2007, the county’s planting area reached approximately 16,000 acres, with a yield of 40,000 tons, establishing it as a leading producer of high-quality yacon in China. In recent years, the county has leveraged various trading platforms such as agricultural expos, Kunming Trade Fairs, press promotion events, and business negotiations. While connecting farmers with opportunities, it has also intensified efforts to promote and market yacon products, fully supporting the growth and strengthening of the yacon industry, building the Songming yacon brand, and achieving increased agricultural efficiency and higher incomes for farmers.