Yongping Buddha’s Hand Citron

Yongping Buddha’s Hand Citron

　　Yongping Buddha’s Hand Citron, also known as “Nine-Clawed Wood” or “Buddha’s Hand Citron,” is a variety of the citron. According to Li Shizhen’s *Compendium of Materia Medica*, “Citrons are produced in the regions of Fujian and Guangdong... Their fruits resemble human hands with fingers, hence commonly called Buddha’s Hand Citron.” The Buddha’s Hand remains evergreen throughout the seasons, with deep green leaves. Its flowers can be used to make tea, tasting similar to jasmine. The fruit has a uniquely whimsical shape resembling a fist or fingers, full of charm and exuding a subtle fragrance. It is a fine ornamental plant both for its blossoms and fruit. The fruit can also be used medicinally.

In addition to the practical values mentioned above, the Buddha’s Hand is also associated with its name. First, it is used as a metaphor for Buddha. A poem by Ming dynasty’s Zhu Duohuozheng titled *Buddha’s Hand Citron* reads: “Spring rain scatters empty blooms, autumn frost weighs down plump fruit. Branches stretch out slender fingers, leaves part to curl tender shoots. Upright fingers enlighten monks, clenched fists baffle followers. One might mistake them for scattering sweet dew, or reaching to grasp celestial robes. Their color gleams in the golden realm, their fragrance partakes of musk’s nectar. May I follow Huiyuan’s path, guiding souls to attain Buddhahood.” The poem links the Buddha’s Hand to Buddhist imagery. Later auspicious patterns such as “Studying Immortality and Buddhism” depict daffodils and Buddha’s Hands—also using the fruit to symbolize Buddha. Second, the “fo” in Buddha’s Hand sounds similar to “fu” (blessing), making it a homophonic symbol for good fortune. The auspicious design “Three Abundances,” representing abundance of blessings, longevity, and offspring, features depictions of Buddha’s Hand, peach, and pomegranate—again using the Buddha’s Hand to signify blessing. This motif is widely used in paintings, fabrics, furniture, utensils, and often appears in birthday celebrations.