Yangmei

Description

Yangmei also known as waxberry or Chinese bayberry that is a fruit native to China, and commonly found in other Southeast Asian countries such as Japan, Korea, and Vietnam. It belongs to the Myricaceae family and 'Myrica rubra' is the scientific name.

The fruit is small and round, usually about 1 to 2 centimeters in diameter. It has a thin, tough skin that ranges in color from dark red to purplish black. The pulp of the fruit is soft and juicy, with a sweet and sour flavor that is often compared to a combination of raspberry and grape. The fruit contains a small pit in the center that is not edible.

Yangmei is usually consumed fresh, but it can be used in jams, jellies, and desserts as well. It is a good source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and other beneficial nutrients. Yangmei fruit is also believed to have various health benefits.

Wild ancestors

Yangmei fruit is native to East Asia, particularly in southern China, Taiwan, and Japan. Its wild ancestors are believed to be native to the same region, and the plant has a long history of cultivation in China, where it is also known as "Chinese bayberry" or "yumberry."

The exact wild ancestor of Yangmei is not known, but it is believed to be a species of Myrica that is still found in the wild in China, Japan, and other parts of Asia. Myrica is a genus of about 50 species of trees and shrubs that are found in temperate and subtropical regions around the world. Some species of Myrica are also found in North and South America.

The closest wild relative of Yangmei is probably Myrica rubra var. acuminata, which is found in the wild in China, Japan, and Taiwan. This variety is similar to the cultivated Yangmei in many ways, including its fruit size, shape, and flavor.

The wild ancestors of Yangmei are likely to be other Myrica species that are found in the same region, and which have been selectively bred over many generations to produce the delicious fruit that we enjoy today.

History

Yangmei, also known as Myrica rubra, is a fruit native to East Asia, particularly China. Its history can be traced back to ancient times when it was used for medicinal purposes by the indigenous tribes of southern China.

During the Song Dynasty (960-1279), Yangmei was introduced into the imperial palace as a royal delicacy. The fruit was highly prized for its sweet and sour flavor and was enjoyed by the emperor and his courtiers. It was also used to make wine, which was considered a luxurious beverage at the time.

Over time, Yangmei became more widely available to the general population, and it became a popular fruit in China. Its popularity spread to other countries in the southeast region, including Japan, Korea, Vietnam, and Taiwan.

In recent years, Yangmei has gained recognition in the global market as a superfood due to its high content of antioxidants and other beneficial nutrients. It is now exported to many countries worldwide, including the United States and Europe, and is becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers.

Yangmei has a long and rich history in East Asia, and its popularity and cultural significance continue to evolve over time.

Cultivars

There are several cultivars of Yangmei that have been developed over time, each with their unique characteristics. Some popular cultivars of Yangmei include:

Dongkui: This cultivar produces large, round fruits with a bright red color and a sweet, juicy flesh. It is known for its high sugar content and is popular in China for both fresh eating and processing into juice or wine.

Baitangying: This cultivar produces smaller, elongated fruits with a deep red color and a slightly tart flavor. It is particularly prized for its high antioxidant content and is often used in traditional Chinese medicine.

Feizixiao: This cultivar is prized for its large, sweet fruits, which can weigh up to 30 grams each. It is particularly popular in Guangdong province, where it is often used to make wine or dried fruit.

Zaozhong: This cultivar is known for its early ripening and high yield, making it popular with growers. It produces small, sweet fruits with a thin skin and is often eaten fresh or used to make preserves.

Fengtian: This cultivar produces round, large fruits with a deep red color and a sweet, juicy flesh. It is particularly popular in Taiwan, where it is often used to make juice or jelly.

Production

According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), China is the largest producer of Yangmei in the world, with an estimated production of over 1.7 million tonnes in 2019. Other countries such as Japan, Korea, and Taiwan also produce small quantities of Yangmei, but China remains the main producer and exporter of this fruit.

The production of Yangmei typically involves the following steps:

Cultivation: Yangmei trees are typically grown from seedlings or grafted plants, and require well-drained soil, plenty of sunlight, and regular watering. They are often grown on slopes or hillsides, which provide good drainage and air circulation.

Pruning: Trees require regular pruning to maintain their shape and promote fruit production. This involves removing dead or diseased wood, thinning out overcrowded branches, and shaping the tree to allow for optimal sunlight exposure.

Fertilization: Yangmei trees require regular fertilization to maintain healthy growth and fruit production. This may involve the application of organic or chemical fertilizers, depending on the specific needs of the tree.

Pest control: Yangmei trees are susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including scale insects, aphids, and fungal infections. Effective pest control measures may involve the use of insecticides, fungicides, or other treatments.

Harvesting: Yangmei fruit typically ripens in late spring or early summer, and is harvested by hand when fully mature. The fruit is delicate and must be handled carefully to avoid bruising or damage.

Post-harvest handling: After harvesting, Yangmei fruit is typically washed, sorted, and packaged for distribution. The fruit is highly perishable and must be handled carefully to ensure maximum shelf life and quality.

Nutrients

Yangmei is known for its sweet and tangy flavor and is a rich source of various nutrients. Here are some of the nutrients found in Yangmei:

Vitamin C: Yangmei is an excellent source of vitamin C, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and skin. A 100-gram serving of Yangmei contains about 40-70 mg of vitamin C, which is about 44-78% of the daily recommended intake.

Fiber: Yangmei is also a good source of fiber, which is important for maintaining digestive health and preventing constipation. A 100-gram serving of Yangmei contains about 2-3 grams of fiber.

Antioxidants: Yangmei is rich in antioxidants, which are compounds that help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. These antioxidants may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

Potassium: Yangmei contains a moderate amount of potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart function. A 100-gram serving of Yangmei contains about 150-200 mg of potassium.

B vitamins: Yangmei also contains several B vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. These vitamins are important for energy production and maintaining healthy skin, hair, and nails.

Yangmei is a nutritious fruit that can provide several health benefits when included in a balanced diet.

Uses

Though Yangmei is native to China but it is now cultivated in many other parts of the world. Here are some of its uses:

1. Culinary uses: Yangmei is often used in Chinese cuisine to make jams, syrups, sauces, and desserts. It can also be eaten fresh or dried.

2. Medicinal uses: Yangmei has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to treat various ailments such as cough, fever, diarrhea, and inflammation. It is also believed to have antioxidant and anti-cancer properties.

3. Beverage uses: Yangmei can be used to make juice, wine, and tea. Yangmei wine is a popular drink in China, and Yangmei tea is said to have a calming effect on the mind and body.

4. Cosmetic uses: Yangmei seed oil is used in cosmetics to moisturize and protect the skin. It is also believed to have anti-aging properties.

5. Ornamental uses: Yangmei trees are often grown for their ornamental value, as they have attractive foliage and produce colorful fruit.

Yangmei is a versatile fruit that has a range of uses, both culinary and medicinal, and is enjoyed by many people around the world.

Health Benefits

Yangmei has a unique, sweet and sour flavor and is rich in nutrients, making it a popular choice among health-conscious individuals. Here are some of the health benefits of Yangmei:

Rich in Antioxidants: Yangmei is a rich source of antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins and flavonoids, which protect the body from free radical damage and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease.

Boosts Immunity: The fruit is high in vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. Eating yangmei regularly can help boost immunity and reduce the risk of infections and illnesses.

Promotes Digestive Health: Yangmei is rich in fiber, which promotes digestive health by aiding in the absorption of nutrients and preventing constipation. It also contains tannins, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe the digestive system.

Anti-inflammatory: Yangmei contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. These compounds can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is associated with many chronic diseases.

Enhances Skin Health: The antioxidants and vitamin C in Yangmei can help improve skin health by protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals and promoting collagen production.

Lowers Cholesterol: Some studies suggest that Yangmei may help lower cholesterol levels in the blood, which can reduce the risk of heart disease.

Supports Eye Health: The fruit contains carotenoids, which are beneficial for eye health. They can protect the eyes from damage caused by UV radiation and reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.

Yangmei is a nutritious and delicious fruit that can provide a range of health benefits when included in a balanced diet.