Top 20 Popular Fruits in China

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Top 20 Popular Fruits in China

China's diverse climate, ranging from subtropical in the south to temperate in the north, along with fertile loam soils, particularly supports the growth of local fruit plants. Key plants such as Tapa cloth tree, Indian Lotus, and Barley are not only integral to the nation's agriculture but also deep-seated within its cultural fabric. These fruits stand as culinary staples and often carry significant symbolism in festivals and traditions, reflecting China's rich horticultural heritage.

Most Popular Fruits

Tapa cloth tree

1. Tapa cloth tree

Another name for tapa cloth tree (Broussonetia papyrifera) is paper mulberry. Ancient Austronesian peoples used the inner bark of tapa cloth tree to make clothing, a practice that continues among some Pacific peoples. This inner bark is also used to make high-quality paper in China and Japan.

Mid spring, Late spring, Summer, Fall, Late winter

Indian Lotus

2. Indian Lotus

Indian Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) is an aquatic species native to China. It is the national flower of India and Vietnam. The indian Lotus is important in Hinduism and Buddhism, and many paintings and sculptures depict religious figures sitting on lotus thrones. Its leaves, seeds, and rhizomes are incorporated into many Asian dishes.

Soybean

Soybean (Glycine max) was domesticated by the Chinese 6,000 to 9,000 years ago. In the eighteenth century, Europeans used soybean for ornamental purposes. It’s a versatile plant grown both for consumption and as an ingredient in manufactured products. It was even used by Henry Ford to make plastic parts for his Model T.

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Barley

Hordeum vulgare or barley is an important cereal grain that's grown globally. It's commonly used in soups, stews, breads, and as a source of malt for alcoholic beverages like beer. The economic value of its trade globally is over $33 billion.

Pepper

The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Crepe myrtle

6. Crepe myrtle

Crepe myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) is a highly ornamental small tropical tree or shrub, often multi-stemmed. It is native to India, Southeastern Asia, and Japan, and features a characteristic vase-shaped crown and beautifully-ruffled pink blooms that can last from early summer to autumn. It is also a popular nesting shrub for small birds.

Asian Rice

Asian Rice is one of the world's most important staple crops. This annual grass, which was first domesticated in China centuries ago, accounts for a significant portion of the diet of half of the world's population. Aside from food, this plant is grown for use in wines, medicines, and cosmetics. It is also used in crafts and religious ceremonies worldwide.

Peach

Peach is native to Northwest China. China, Spain, and Italy are the top three producers of peaches world-wide. The peach is also the state fruit of Georgia. Peach production in the US in 2017 was valued at $599 million. The fruit has a yellow or white flesh, a sweet aroma, and a skin that is either velvety (peaches) or smooth (nectarines).

Mid summer, Late summer

Garden cosmos

9. Garden cosmos

Garden cosmos (Cosmos bipinnatus) is a herbaceous annual plant often cultivated as an ornamental in temperate regions. Due to its self-sowing ability, garden cosmos can grow on the same spot for several years, even though it is an annual. Not surprisingly, this quality also made it an invasive species in certain areas of the world.

Plumed cockscomb

10. Plumed cockscomb

The plumed cockscomb is a bright plant with recognizable red, pink, or purple flowers. It grows best in warm, tropical environments. Occasionally, plumed cockscomb is used as an ingredient in soap. In China and India, however, the plant is considered a pesky weed that reduces biodiversity.

Common lantana

11. Common lantana

The common lantana is a flowering plant that grows best in tropical environments. It spread outside the Americas when the Dutch brought it to Europe. The plant is generally regarded as an unwanted weed that reduces biodiversity. Additionally, it is toxic to livestock and harms the output of farmland.

White clover

12. White clover

White clover (Trifolium repens) is a perennial herb, one of the most cultivated species of clover. It can be found on lawns and grasslands all over the world. White clover is often cultivated as a forage plant and used for green manure in agriculture.

Mid summer, Late summer, Early fall, Mid fall

Maidenhair tree

13. Maidenhair tree

Maidenhair tree (Ginkgo biloba) is a living fossil - a tree with such a long history that there are recognizable fossils dating to as much as 270 million years ago. Maidenhair tree is considered one of the earliest plant species cultivated by humans throughout history. The ripe fruits give off an unpleasant scent, so growers often plant only the male (non-fruiting) plants.

Pomegranate

14. Pomegranate

Pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a deciduous shrub or small tree, native to western and southern parts of Asia. It has a long history of cultivation and rich symbolism in polytheistic religions. Fruits of pomegranate play an important role in many West Asian cuisines. Aside from culinary uses, this fruit-bearing shrub is also cultivated for ornamental purposes.

Chinese hibiscus

15. Chinese hibiscus

Chinese hibiscus is a small flowering tree. Its fragrant flowers are well known the world over, leading to many cultivated variants. Chinese hibiscus is the national flower of Malaysia and is featured on Malaysian coins. Although the Latin name, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, means “the rose of China,” it is not related to true roses.

Spring, Summer, Fall, Early winter, Mid winter

Cape jasmine

16. Cape jasmine

Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.

Common zinnia

17. Common zinnia

The common zinnia is a popular garden plant that has usually been hybridized from different wild varieties. It thrives in relatively dry conditions with good airflow and comes in many colors.

Sweet osmanthus

18. Sweet osmanthus

Sweet osmanthus (Osmanthus fragrans) is a large evergreen flowering shrub. Sweet osmanthus's small white and orange flowers smell like apricots. This species is also referred to as by the Fragrant Tea Olive.

Madagascar periwinkle

19. Madagascar periwinkle

The madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) is an evergreen subshrub or herbaceous plant. It has a long history of cultivation. Over the years, many cultivars have been developed, most commonly with the aim of incorporating new colors or making the plant more tolerant to cold.

Spring, Summer, Fall, Early winter

Pokeweed

Although its berries look juicy and tempting, the fruits and the root of pokeweed are toxic and should not be eaten. Pokeweed is considered a pest species by farmers but is nevertheless often grown as an ornamental plant. Its berries can be made into pokeberry ink as well.

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Most Common Toxic Plants

China's diverse climates, from humid subtropical to plateau monsoon, create a fertile playground for numerous species, including toxic plants. The prevalence of , , and is a testament to this varied environment. Challenges persist in managing these toxic flora amidst the nation's vast agricultural expanses and wildlands, indicating a need for cautious cohabitation with these perilous natives.

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Most Common Flowers

China's diverse climate and soil conditions create a hospitable environment for a variety of native flowers. Among these are , , and . These blossoms contribute to the visual beauty, hold symbolic significance, and play a vital ecological role in the region. Trustworthy sources validate the presence and importance of these characteristic flowers in China.

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Most Common Flowers of Spring

As China's landscape thaws from winter's embrace, Spring breathes life into an array of flowers, signaling a season of growth and renewal. Among these, the delicate , vibrant , and iconic emerge with splendor. These blooms are not just visual treats but embody the spirited essence of Spring, symbolizing prosperity, happiness, and the reawakening of nature with their bright petals and lush foliage.

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Most Common Spring Fruits

Spring in China unfurls amidst a tapestry of blossoming flowers and temperate breezes, providing a fertile cradle for a plethora of fruit plants. Notably, the harvest season welcomes the sweetness of , the tang of , and the succulence of . These fruits, brimming with freshness, not only epitomize the season's vibrancy but also hold a cherished position in the local culture and cuisine.

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Most Common Trees

China's diverse climate and fertile soils provide ideal conditions for the growth of numerous native trees. Among the emblematic trees of the region are the towering , , and . These trees hold immense cultural and ecological value within China. They symbolize resilience, longevity, and heritage, and are often revered and celebrated in Chinese culture. Their presence not only enriches the landscapes but also supports the biodiversity and sustainability of the region.

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Most Common Weeds

China's diverse climates, from subtropical in the south to temperate in the north, provide fertile grounds for various garden weeds to flourish. Among these, , , and are notably pervasive, often outcompeting domestic flora. These weeds present a significant challenge for gardeners and landscape managers seeking to maintain balanced and healthy ecosystems. Regular and strategic interventions are essential to mitigate the spread of these aggressive species.

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Most Common Tall Trees

In China's varied landscape, where subtropical and temperate climates intermingle with rugged terrain, some of the world's tallest trees soar to impressive heights. Against this backdrop, species such as , , and stand as natural skyscrapers, their majestic forms a testament to the country's rich biodiversity. These arboreal giants hold ecological and historical significance, symbolizing the enduring vitality of China's ancient forests.

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Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in China is a serene and cold season, but it is also a time when certain flowers brave the chill. Despite the frosty environment, , , and blossom with resilience and beauty. These Winter flowers are not only symbolically significant but also add color and vitality to the otherwise monochromatic landscape. Explore the unique wonders of Winter in China through these hardy and enchanting blooms.

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Most Common Plants

In China, you can find Golden pothos, Tapa cloth tree, Indian Lotus, Soybean, Barley, and more! There are 50 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.

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