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Chinese snowball viburnum, the flower emblem of Yangzhou, East China's Jiangsu province, is in full bloom. Here are some recommended spots in Yangzhou to admire the season's floral beauty.
Qionghua Taoist Temple
The Qionghua Taoist Temple is decked with soft whites and greens. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
True to its name, Qionghua Taoist Temple is closely tied to the viburnum. Emperors Renzong and Xiaozong of the Song Dynasty (960-1279) once attempted to transplant an unparalleled viburnum tree in the temple to their royal courtyards. However, the tree failed to thrive and was moved back to Yangzhou.
The temple is decorated with white, jade-like Chinese snowball viburnums blooming over terraces, beside ponds, along curved bridges, and on verdant lawns, complemented by rockeries and ancient architecture.
Daming Temple
Chinese snowball viburnums blossom at Daming Temple. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
At Daming Temple stands a more than 300-year-old Chinese snowball viburnum tree, the oldest of its kind in Yangzhou. This venerable specimen showcases a vibrant display of lush foliage complemented by pure-white blossoms, creating a striking contrast with the fiery red maples on the southern slope.
Song Jia City
A tunnel in Song Jia City is lined with Chinese snowball viburnum trees. [Photo/WeChat account: yzs_lyj]
Near the west gate of Song Jia City lies a Chinese snowball viburnum boulevard stretching from the southwest to the northwest. Walking along the avenue, you'll be greeted by thousands of white-hued blooms, a picturesque sight.
