The peony, often referred to as the "king of flowers", holds a valued place in Chinese culture and history. Its vibrant colours, lush petals and beguiling fragrance have inspired countless poets, artists and scholars over the centuries. As Zhang Lun, secretary of the Heze Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China, vividly described, "The peony, with its large, colourful blossoms and rich fragrance, symbolises wealth, happiness and prosperity, and is loved by the whole world."
This floral emblem has gone beyond mere aesthetics to become an integral part of China's cultural identity. "More than 3,000 peony poems have survived to this day, as well as countless songs, essays and literary stories," added Zhang. The enduring legacy of the peony is woven into the fabric of Chinese society, symbolising the country's rich artistic traditions and deep appreciation of natural beauty.
"Peony capital of China" is a fitting name for Heze, a city in Shandong Province. Throughout its 1,500-year history, the region has developed a close relationship with the peony, promoting its development and honouring its beauty. "Heze is dotted with famous peony gardens, peonies are everywhere, and the peony industry is booming … It has become the world's largest peony production, export and ornamental plant base with the largest area and the largest number of varieties," Zhang shared proudly.
Guests attend a peony-themed event in Heze, Shandong Province
The peony industry in Heze has contributed significantly to the local economy and enhanced the city's global reputation. Thanks to modern techniques such as floral catalysis, cut flower production, variety selection and breeding, Heze has become a globally recognised centre for the cultivation and export of peonies. The city has more than 1,300 varieties of peonies and more than 260 processed products, including peony oil and cosmetics, further enhancing its economic potential.
Peony diplomacy
Beyond its economic importance, the peony has become a powerful cultural ambassador, promoting international exchanges and cooperation. Heze has used the peony as a medium to showcase China's rich cultural heritage and promote friendship across borders. Zhang said, "We will seize the strategic opportunity of the country’s continuously expanding opening up, embrace the world with a more open attitude and let more peonies from Heze go to the whole country and the world."
Peony paintings have been presented as state gifts, and peony-themed events have graced important diplomatic occasions such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit in Qingdao in 2018. This peony diplomacy has helped forge links with nations around the world and promote mutual understanding and appreciation of China's cultural treasures.
The peony's journey as a cultural ambassador has been enhanced by strategic collaborations and innovative storytelling techniques. By inviting foreign scholars, dignitaries and online influencers to participate in peony-related events and activities, Heze has harnessed the power of diverse perspectives and voices, giving the peony story credibility and resonance on the global stage.
The peony is a symbol of togetherness that unites people, bridges cultural differences and encourages cooperation. Because of its timeless beauty, it reminds people of their shared admiration for the splendour of nature and the enduring value of cultural diplomacy.
