A 700-year-old seed was planted in eastern China’s Zhejiang Province. Surprisingly, the ancient seed sprouted and grew into a verdant lotus plant. /Chinanews Photo
The lotus seed was found at an archaeological site dating back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD) in eastern China’s Shandong Province. The seed was moved from the site, after which it underwent two years of dedicated cultivation by Chinese plant expert Dr. Li Zhengrong, who got hold of the seed by sheer coincidence. /Chinanews Photo
News of the robust plant has made a splash on social media, with many Chinese netizens deeming the ancient lotus plant more elegant than its modern counterparts. /Chinanews Photo
Chinese people have an endearing fondness for the lotus. Untouched by impurities, the plant symbolizes purity of the heart and mind, and represents long life, humility, honor and tranquility. /Chinanews Photo
