In the southeastern coastal province of Zhejiang, China, lush forests of Eucommia ulmoides (hardy rubber tree) quietly weave a legend of nature and culture. As one of the world's key native habitats for Eucommia ulmoides, Zhejiang is renowned for producing this valuable resource with "golden quality." From misty mountain ranges to modern industrial parks, Zhejiang has harnessed its unique natural endowments and wisdom to decode the "golden secret" of the Eucommia industry.
Zhejiang's premium Eucommia production areas are mainly concentrated in Tongxiang (Jiaxing), Lin'an (Hangzhou), and Pan'an (Jinhua). What makes these regions the ideal habitat for Eucommia? The answer lies in Zhejiang's exceptional climate, soil, and topography:
Warm and Humid Subtropical Monsoon Climate
Zhejiang experiences four distinct seasons, with an average annual temperature of 15–17°C and evenly distributed rainfall. Eucommia ulmoides thrives in sunlight but is sensitive to waterlogging. Zhejiang's humid yet moderate environment prevents extreme heat and drought while ensuring ample moisture, promoting the accumulation of latex and active compounds in the tree bark.
Nutrient-Rich Soil
Eucommia requires specific soil conditions, favoring loose, well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic soils. Zhejiang's mountainous red soil is rich in potassium and calcium, while the yellow-brown soil of Tongxiang, with a pH of 6.0–6.5, provides optimal conditions for root growth and the synthesis of medicinal compounds.
Ideal Altitude for Growth
Zhejiang's Eucommia forests are mainly found at altitudes of 200–800 meters, avoiding the excessive humidity of lowland plains and the harsh winds and low temperatures of high mountains. This "golden altitude" allows Eucommia trees to maximize photosynthesis, resulting in tree bark thickness 2–3 times greater than that of ordinary production areas.
The use of Eucommia ulmoides in China dates back to the ancient text Shennong Ben Cao Jing (The Divine Farmer's Materia Medica). However, in Zhejiang, the plant’s value has been fully realized, creating a unique industrial and cultural heritage:
A Deep-Rooted Tradition of Medicinal and Culinary Use
In Zhejiang, there is a traditional saying: "Southern ginseng, northern astragalus; eastern Eucommia, western goji." For centuries, locals have used Eucommia leaves to make tea and porridge to treat rheumatism and lower back pain. During the Ming and Qing dynasties, Eucommia bark from Tongxiang’s Wuzhen region was even presented as tribute to the imperial court.
Innovation in Modern Industry
In the 1980s, Zhejiang pioneered the establishment of Eucommia plantations, introducing grafting techniques and organic cultivation standards. Today, the province has over 300,000 acres of Eucommia plantations, accounting for more than 10% of China’s total production. In the area surrounding Tongxiang—also famous for Hangzhou white chrysanthemum—an integrated Eucommia industrial chain has taken shape.
Zhejiang's Eucommia industry has secured its global "golden standard" status through deep scientific understanding and technological innovation:
Semi-Wild Cultivation Model
By simulating natural forest ecosystems, Zhejiang has adopted a "tree-shrub-grass" multi-layered planting model, which reduces soil erosion while enhancing disease and pest resistance. Data from Lin'an’s demonstration bases show that this method increases flavonoid content in Eucommia leaves by 15% compared to traditional cultivation.
Comprehensive Value Extraction Across the Supply Chain
Zhejiang has maximized the full economic potential of Eucommia ulmoides, utilizing every part of the tree:
Bark: Extracted for Eucommia rubber (a natural alternative to synthetic rubber) and blood pressure-lowering compounds.
Leaves: Processed into health teas and functional beverages.
Wood: Used for high-end furniture and handicrafts.
The province is now home to more than 100 Eucommia deep-processing enterprises, with an annual industrial output exceeding 10 billion yuan.
A Model of Ecological and Economic Coexistence
In Pan'an, villagers integrate Eucommia cultivation with traditional herbal medicine farming and rural tourism, creating a "forest-based economy" model. Tourists can participate in Eucommia harvesting and experience traditional herbal preparation techniques, boosting local homestays and agritourism. This approach truly embodies the philosophy that "green mountains and clear waters are as valuable as gold and silver."
Zhejiang’s success has set a new standard for the global Eucommia industry:
Quality as the Top Priority: Through geographic indication certification (e.g., "Tongxiang Eucommia") and strict quality traceability systems, Zhejiang’s Eucommia commands a 30% premium in international markets.
Sustainable Utilization: By promoting "extended harvesting cycles," each tree can be cultivated for over 50 years, preventing excessive exploitation.
Cultural Branding for Global Recognition: Leveraging events like the Wuzhen World Internet Conference, Zhejiang is positioning Eucommia as a symbol of "Oriental wellness wisdom" on the global stage.
Standing at the forefront of the world’s Eucommia industry, Zhejiang remains committed to the belief that true "gold" lies in respecting nature and preserving traditions. Every Eucommia leaf and every inch of soil in this land tells the story of humanity’s harmonious coexistence with nature. In the future, Zhejiang will continue unlocking nature’s gifts, ensuring that "Chinese Eucommia" shines as a treasured gem in the global health industry.
