Hongze Gorgon Fruit

Hongze Gorgon Fruit

Hongze Gorgon Fruit is a geographical indication certification trademark.

　　Gorgon fruit is an aquatic economic plant. Its petiole, flower stalk, and seeds are all edible. Not only is it highly nutritious, but it also offers excellent medical and health benefits.

　　In 2002, Zhangzhuang Village in Dongshuanggou Town, Hongze County, successfully introduced the cultivation of Suzhou gorgon fruit, leading to a significant increase in profits. Cultivation of Suzhou gorgon fruit rapidly expanded across Hongze County and spread to four counties around the Hongze Lake area. In 2006, the Hongze County Party Committee and County Government seized the opportunity to designate the development of an aquatic vegetable industry—centered on gorgon fruit—as a key project within high-efficiency crop farming. Driven by strong promotional efforts, demonstration programs, and a series of supportive policies, the gorgon fruit industry in Hongze County maintained robust momentum. The planted area increased by thousands of mu each year. Currently, the total cultivation area has reached 30,000 mu, involving 12 townships, over 20 villages, and more than 400 farming households. There are 26 large-scale growers with plots exceeding 100 mu each, as well as several specialized gorgon fruit-producing villages. A preliminary industrial structure has taken shape, with cooperatives supporting bases, and bases connecting to farmers.

　　At present, Hongze County has become the provincial hub for the production and sale of gorgon fruit, driving the development of the industry in surrounding areas around Hongze Lake. Major growth has occurred in Xuyi, Jinhu, Baoying, and other parts of the Hongze Lake region, where the planting area now exceeds 50,000 mu. There are over 10 specialized dealers engaged in gorgon fruit purchasing in Hongze, with products sold nationwide and nearly 30 professionals involved in the trade. The thriving market has stimulated related industries. More than 5,000 people are employed in harvesting, shelling, drying, and packaging.