Hunan hills turn purple-red as Chinese bayberry harvest peaks

The hills of Quyang township in Jingzhou Miao and Dong autonomous county, Hunan province, recently blossomed into a vibrant purple-red color as the Chinese bayberries reached their peak harvest season.

Local farmers were busy hand-picking the round, juicy fruits and loading them into baskets for transport.

Cultivated over decades, the fruit has become a local agricultural icon. During harvest season, the orchards attract visitors eager to pick their own fruit, while fresh berries are distributed to markets nationwide through online and offline channels.

The fruit has also given rise to a thriving industry chain, integrating agritourism, fresh fruit sales, and processing. For many families in Jingzhou, this small fruit has become a reliable source of income, transforming the region's lush green hills into a "gold mine" of sweetness.