The Huangshan Gongju Industry Development Conference took place in Huangshan city – located in East China's Anhui province – on Nov 8.
Huangshan Gongju – also known as the tribute chrysanthemum – originates from Shexian county in Huangshan city. Renowned for its vibrant colors, captivating fragrance, delectable taste and distinctive appearance, it has earned accolades as the "king of chrysanthemums" and as a "national treasure".
A farmhand picks tribute chrysanthemums, also known as Gongju, in Shexian county. [Photo/WeChat account: huangshanribao]
In recent years, Shexian county has made significant efforts to boost its chrysanthemum industry. Embracing a holistic approach, the county has focused on chrysanthemum culture and cultivation technology with an emphasis on sustainability, eco-friendliness and branding. As a result, the quality and reputation of the Huangshan Gongju have continued to rise.
Currently, the county has some 60,000 mu (4,000 hectares) under chrysanthemum cultivation, yielding a hefty 5,200 metric tons of flowers each year worth 750 million yuan ($103 million). The industry is now the county's second-largest specialist agricultural sector, trailing only the tea sector.
The conference featured the release of essential information about the genuine medicinal value of Huangshan Gongju and the adoption of best practice principles and guidelines that will promote sustainable and safe production of Huangshan Gongju products.
Insights into the evolving trends of the county's flower and herbal tea e-commerce industry were also shared.
Moreover, the conference honored the top six Huangshan Gongju plantations and the top six production and distribution companies in the county. Investors – both from within the country and beyond – were presented with opportunities to explore and invest in various green food industries, including tea and chrysanthemums.