When the first sunlight shines through the misty fog, a new day starts for all the living things on the Hulunbuir grassland. This vast grass kingdom in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region is hailed as the best-preserved grassland in the world, stretching nearly 100,000 square kilometers, an area larger than Austria. It is a natural pasture for numerous livestock and wildlife.
At first sight, you might be amazed by the grand scenery made up of winding rivers and lush grasses, and miss the micro view. But, if you take a closer look, you will find some incredibly-beautiful flowers blooming in the water or scattering on the grassland.
Hulunbuir Grassland in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. /VCG Photo
The fringed water lily or yellow floating heart is one of these flowers that catch people's attention. The delicate flower with fringed yellow petals stands above the water surface and only blooms for one day. However, there are so many that you can see in full bloom. With leaves floating on the river like water lilies, it takes roots at the muddy bottom of the river. In ancient times, people ate the tender leaves, but nowadays only a few people keep this tradition.
On this dreamy land, over 1,000 plant species thrive in abundance. Below, are some of the amazing wildflowers on the grassland, a great feast to the eyes.
China's Flora Tour
From the wetlands along the coast to the dense rain forests hidden in the southwest of China, all boast an array of plant species. In this series, we will go on a tour to learn about some of the most representative flora in different provinces and see how they live in harmony with the local geography and climate.
Read More:
China's Flora Tour: Inner Mongolia-The golden warriors that fix sand, make delicacies
China's Flora Tour: Inner Mongolia-Haloxylon – a tough desert plant
China's Flora Tour: Inner Mongolia-Euphrates poplar – king of the desert
China's Flora Tour: Inner Mongolia-The tough trees first reborn from the wild fire
(Cover image taken by CGTN Nature film crew, designed by CGTN's Jia Jieqiong)
(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com.)