Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the cultural and economic significance of the gardenia flower in Yueyang, emphasizing its historical roots, current cultivation practices, and its role in tourism and local economy [9][10][15]. Group 1: Cultural Significance - The gardenia flower has been cherished in Yueyang for over a thousand years, symbolizing purity and resilience, and is deeply intertwined with local customs and history [9][10]. - The flower is associated with the poet Qu Yuan, who is said to have been mourned by locals with gardenias, leading to a tradition of wearing the flower during the Dragon Boat Festival [9][10]. - Gardenia was officially designated as the city flower of Yueyang in the 1980s, reflecting its cultural importance [9][10]. Group 2: Economic Impact - The cultivation of gardenias has developed into a significant industry in Yueyang, with standardized planting bases and a focus on both medicinal and ornamental uses [11][12]. - The gardenia flower and its by-products, such as essential oils and natural pigments, contribute to the local economy, with reports of substantial harvests and sales [11][12]. - Advanced agricultural techniques, including space breeding, have increased the yield of gardenia fruits by 3 to 5 times compared to traditional varieties [11][12]. Group 3: Tourism Development - Gardenia flowers have become a key attraction for tourism in Yueyang, with various local products and experiences centered around the flower, such as themed ice creams and creative dishes [15][16]. - The city has initiated collaborative tourism projects with neighboring cities, promoting gardenia-themed events and activities to enhance regional tourism [16]. - Local festivals and cultural events centered on gardenias aim to integrate agriculture, culture, and tourism, fostering rural revitalization [15][16].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the economic transformation of Dongmenzai Village, known for its abundant gardenia flowers, which has become a significant source of income for local residents through flower cultivation and related industries [3][9]. Group 1: Economic Impact - Dongmenzai Village has developed 500 acres of gardenia fields, with 105 households involved in this fragrant industry, creating a flower fragrance industry chain from fresh flower sales to deep processing [3][10]. - Villager Li Guifeng earned approximately 80,000 yuan from flower sales last year, indicating the profitability of gardenia cultivation [4]. - The village's annual production of fresh flowers reached between 4 million to 8 million blooms by 2021, making it a crucial income source for residents [9]. Group 2: Market Development - The introduction of express delivery services has enabled villagers to sell gardenia flowers nationwide, with orders coming from cities like Chengdu, Hangzhou, and Fuzhou [10]. - A Sichuan company has started purchasing "leftover" flowers for essential oil and perfume production, allowing villagers to monetize flowers that would otherwise go unsold [10]. - The village is exploring the establishment of a public brand for gardenias to enhance product recognition and market competitiveness [13]. Group 3: Community and Tourism - The village has attracted tourists, enhancing local engagement and promoting the sale of unique agricultural products [11]. - An ecological farming model combining flowers, rice, and shrimp has been developed, which has been well-received by visitors [11]. - Young villagers are returning to start businesses, leveraging social media platforms to promote local products [12]. Group 4: Future Prospects - Plans are underway to diversify product offerings, including dried flowers, scented sachets, and gardenia tea, to increase added value [13]. - The village aims to register trademarks for "Dongmenzai Gardenia" to boost market presence and competitiveness [13].

Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the traditional practice of cultivating and selling gardenias in Dongmenzhai Village, Wuhan, particularly during the Dragon Boat Festival, showcasing the economic benefits and community involvement in this floral industry [1][5][16]. Group 1: Cultivation and Economic Impact - Dongmenzhai Village has a long history of gardenia cultivation, with the planting area reaching 108 acres by 2021, producing between 4 million to 8 million fresh flowers annually, which has become a significant income source for villagers [15][16]. - Villager Li Guifeng, who owns about 10 acres of flower fields, earned approximately 80,000 yuan last year solely from flower sales, indicating the profitability of this agricultural practice [5][15]. - The introduction of online sales through platforms like WeChat has expanded the market reach, allowing villagers to sell flowers directly to customers across the country [16][21]. Group 2: Community and Cultural Significance - The tradition of using gardenias during the Dragon Boat Festival is deeply rooted in local culture, with practices such as wearing gardenias and placing them in homes to celebrate the occasion [1][2]. - The village has seen an increase in tourism, with visitors coming to experience the beauty of the gardenia fields, which has revitalized the local economy and community spirit [25][26]. - The cultivation of gardenias has led to the development of an ecological farming model, integrating the growth of other products like rice and crayfish, enhancing the overall agricultural output and sustainability [26][29]. Group 3: Innovations and Future Prospects - The village is exploring new markets for "leftover" flowers that cannot be sold as fresh, with a Sichuan company purchasing them for essential oils and perfumes, thus creating additional revenue streams [20][21]. - The expansion of gardenia cultivation has increased to over 500 acres, reflecting the villagers' commitment and enthusiasm for this industry [21]. - Plans are underway to develop rural tourism and establish a "Gardenia Village" brand to further promote the local economy and attract more visitors [29].