Kapok Flowers in Full Bloom

Kapok is a kind of tropical tree found across Guangzhou and known to Chinese people as “Cotton Tree” (Mumian). People in Guangzhou have long grown Kapok trees, using its cotton to make clothes and its flowers as medicine. Cantonese consider they have a strong spirit which pushes it to grow high into the sunlight. In 1982, Kapok flowers were chosen to become the official flower of Guangzhou.

In March, kapok flowers are in full bloom across the city and can easily be admired in Yuexiu Park, Martyrs’ Park, Tianhe Park, and along many main avenues. The oldest kapok tree is 320 years old and is located near the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall.

(By Katherine Zhang and David Keyton)

Source: Lifeofguangzhou.com

Editor: Shanna Chu