Swathes of Orange-Red Flowers Dance in Summer Breeze – Glorious ‘Belamcanda chinensis’ Bloom in Alishan

▲ Belamcanda chinensis in bloom decorates Alishan’s green world. (Photo / Screenshot fromChiayi Forest District Office, the same below)

Travel Centre / Comprehensive Report

Within the Alishan National Forest Recreation Area managed by the Chiayi Forest District Office under the Forestry Bureau, Belamcanda chinensis is currently in full bloom. Especially on the slopes near Alishan Railway Station, orange-red flower seas sway in the wind. The delicate blooms compete in beauty with the large, globe-shaped hydrangeas, creating an absolutely breathtaking scene. In the midst of scorching summer heat, they offer a refreshing visual feast.

▲ You can even spot Belamcanda chinensis just by walking along the roadside.

Belamcanda chinensisis a perennial herbaceous plant of the Iridaceae family, with underground bulbs. Its leaves fan out at the base, resembling those of iris (iris-like), and its flowers resemble those of belamcanda. The orange-red blossoms have six petals, and their zigzag inflorescence is quite unique. This is now their peak blooming season, and they burst into vibrant orange-red blooms all at once, painting the season in shades of orange-red, as if you’ve stepped into a scene straight out of a fairy tale — stunningly beautiful and mesmerizing. Coupled with the phytoncides released by thousand-year-old hinoki cypresses, carried gently by the mountain mist, they create an atmosphere that refreshes the mind and body, completely dispelling the summer heat.

▲ The bold, passionate orange-red hues are perfectly in tune with the spirit of summer.

Earlier this year, Alishan experienced rare snowfall and cold snaps. It was initially expected that the blooming of Belamcanda chinensis might be affected. Fortunately, with the warm sunshine of July and August, the orange-red blossoms have flourished brilliantly, displaying vivid and eye-catching colors. They can be seen everywhere around the slopes near Alishan Railway Station, along Zhushan Forest Road, and in Zhapingshan Park. Walkers can follow the pedestrian paths separate from vehicle lanes to Zhapingshan Park, enjoying the flowers while soaking in the forest phytoncides. Alternatively, you can take the new electric sightseeing carts or the Alishan Forest Railway to Zhapingshan Station. From there, stroll through the literary charm-filled Zhapingshan Park or visit the Shuisan Giant Tree, gaze up at the approximately 2,700-year-old red cypress, and marvel at the wonders of nature.

In the midst of the sweltering summer heat, visitors can come together to Alishan National Forest Recreation Area to enjoy the flowers and escape the heat. However, due to the large temperature difference between mountainous and plain areas, remember to bring warm clothing.

Alishan National Forest Recreation Area
Address: Alishan National Scenic Area, Alishan Township, Chiayi County