It's quite rare to see a large sea of flowers in December. However, recently in Kunming, large areas of bright and fragrant Tagetes lemmonii are blooming in Jiaoye Park.

Different from the common commercial crop marigold, Tagetes lemmonii is native to Central and South America. Its flowers are golden yellow and single-petaled. Because the whole plant exudes fragrance, it is hung under the eaves to repel mosquitoes and flies. Therefore, it is also known as an "anti-mosquito plant."

Tagetes lemmonii has a unique fragrance with a multi-layered compound aroma similar to lemongrass, candy soda, and orange juice that added some spicy seasonings. This floral scent may be a little sweet in a hot summer, but in the chill breeze of autumn and winter, it becomes perfect.

Zhang Chao, Deputy Director of Jiaoye Park: "Tagetes lemmonii has a relatively long flowering period. It has a characteristic that when you touch it, its fragrance may cover all over your hand. However, some people don't like this fragrance. We have also consulted many tourists, and most of them still like it because the scent is indeed very refreshing.”

Starting from early November, Tagetes lemmonii in Jiaoye Park has begun to bloom, and their flowering period will last until the end of December or even early January. They bloom all over the park wildly, healing the bleak autumn and winter with their bright colors and unique fragrances. 

These golden flowers seas can be seen on the lawns of the park, on both sides of the main road, or on the hillsides. According to reports, Jiaoye Park began planting Tagetes lemmonii in about 2012, and now there are more than 10,000 of them, becoming the "popular flower" in the park.

Zhang Chao, Deputy Director of Jiaoye Park: "Now there are two main areas in the park where people can admire Tagetes lemmonii. One is on both sides of the main road coming in from the east gate of the park, which is very suitable for taking pictures. The other is the flower field, located at the end of Beauty Valley in the park. As long as you find Beauty Valley in the park, you can find this flower field."

Visitor: "I feel delighted. We all yearn for a more natural and leisurely life after retirement. The whole scenery of Jiaoye Park, with flowers and fresh air, makes us feel relaxed when we come here."

Tourist: "We see different flowers in different seasons in Kunming, and these are the best sceneries. Just as our companion said that this flower not only provides us with ornamental value, but also has health value. It's great!"

Tourist: "My parents are here for the first time this year. Honestly, it's already winter in my hometown, and all the flowers there have withered and the trees have basically no leaves. My parents were shocked when they came here because the climate is very comfortable and the leaves haven't fallen off yet and even they are all green.”

Winter may be monotonous in many other cities, but in Kunming, winter is colorful. Here, in Jiaoye Park, besides Tagetes lemmonii, there are also camellias, maples, winter jasmines and other plants. As the sun is shining, why not go to Jiaoye Park with your friends to bask in the sun and enjoy the flowers. (Editors: Amy, Ines)