crabapple fruit, crabapple

Crabapple fruit, crabapple

　　Crabapple fruit and crabapple trees are a scenic feature of Lijiang. In spring, their blossoms are admired, and in autumn, the fruits are harvested. They not only beautify the environment but also bring considerable economic benefits. The planting of crabapple trees in Lijiang has a long history. In the late Qing Dynasty, Naxi poet He Songqiao praised them in his poem “Miscellaneous Poems on Lijiang”: “Ancient crabapple trees cluster south of the city, their red reflections deep in White Horse Pool, where three or five visitors gather. Sitting by the trees and flowers, they chat leisurely.” He Songqiao’s poem vividly captures the beautiful scenery during the crabapple blooming season in Lijiang, which remains delightful and charming to read even today. There are three types of crabapples in Lijiang: first is the flowering quince crabapple (also known as the dwarf crabapple), mainly used for garden beautification and appreciated for its flowers. The fruit it bears after the blossoms fade is a quince, not a crabapple; second is the Begonia crabapple (also called hong, mother-and-child crabapple, or small crabapple fruit). The Begonia crabapple has smooth and dense branches, an upright tree form, green leaves, fragrant flowers, double petals, and bears bright, sweet fruits; the third is the weeping crabapple, with graceful tree posture, slender drooping flower branches, and either single or double petals. Its delicate and charming colors resemble small lotus flowers, making it a premium variety among crabapple flowers. The latter two types of crabapples are most abundant in Lashi, Lijiang, both displaying gorgeous spring blossoms and autumn fruits. Crabapple fruits in Lijiang are often made into dried products for sale, available in loose or bagged forms. In the Naxi language, they are called “duolijiu bu,” a dried fruit that serves both as food and medicine for treating nephritis and diabetes. They are especially suitable for children who are reluctant to take medicine, allowing them to enjoy the fruit while addressing their health issues. (Lijiang)