Lotus grower introduces self-cultivated species

Weifang Dark Red, a species of lotus cultivated by lotus grower Song Lidong. [Photo by Hao Peiru for chinadaily.com.cn]

Song Lidong, a lotus grower in Weicheng district in Weifang, East China's Shandong province, is making efforts to cultivate new species and bring Chinese lotus to the world.

Weifang Dark Red, a species of lotus cultivated by Song, is regarded as the species with the deepest color, while Jiangnan Pearl, another species, features peculiar shapes.

Song has also grown many other lotus species, including Red Yimeng, Pearl of the Orient, and Jingshui Avalokitesvara.

Weicheng district in recent years has blazed a path of rural vitalization featuring special agricultural parks themed on lotus, roses, strawberries, tomatoes, and Dendrobium officinales. (Edited by Gong Jun)

Song Lidong examines a lotus flower he is growing. [Photo by Hao Peiru for chinadaily.com.cn]

A lotus flower cultivated by Song Lidong. [Photo by Hao Peiru for chinadaily.com.cn]

A lotus flower garden in Weicheng district. [Photo by Hao Peiru for chinadaily.com.cn]