Graphics: How does the peony industry bloom around China and the world?

The peony, an emblem of traditional Chinese culture, holds a storied past and profound meaning, earning it the title "the king of flowers."

Every April, as peonies bloom, festivals take place in cities like Heze in Shandong Province and Luoyang in Henan Province. These events draw crowds of visitors, captivated by the flower's splendor, nurturing the growth of the local tourism sector.

Peonies transcend beauty. Their roots yield medicinal properties, their petals brew aromatic teas and their seeds produce oil. In Heze, Shandong, principal peony hubs, abundant blooms flood both domestic and international markets, infusing fresh vigor into local economies. 

Each year, millions of seedlings and over 260 types of peony-derived products – ranging from seed oil and tea to skincare items – are exported to dozens of countries and regions worldwide. According to the Peony Industry Development Center of Heze, the total output value of the peony industry in Heze reached 13 billion yuan ($1.8 billion), creating more than 500,000 jobs in 2024.