Stone Forest Pomegranates

Stone Forest Pomegranates

　　Pomegranates are said to have been introduced to China by Zhang Qian during his mission to the Western Regions in the Western Han Dynasty. The Lintong pomegranates have a history of 2,000 years, boast the highest production in China, and are a traditional export product of Xi’an, enjoying a long-standing reputation in Southeast Asia and the Hong Kong and Macao regions. As an excellent fruit, Lintong pomegranates are rich in vitamins and minerals, and their skin, seeds, and other parts are also valued as medicinal herbs. The bright red and fragrant pomegranate flowers were chosen as the city flower of Xi’an. The harvest season for pomegranates is from September to October each year. Lintong has a long history of cultivating pomegranates. There are two types: sour and sweet. The sour variety has juicy flesh, thin skin, and large seeds, and can be stored for a relatively long time. The sweet type is known for its delicious taste and is hailed as “rock sugar pomegranate.” Whether sour or sweet, Lintong pomegranates all feature bright red color, large size, thin skin, full seeds, vibrant hues, and a delightful flavor.