In the Jiushuigu Ecological Scenic Area, located in the Sanshui District, nature thrives without disturbance. A vibrant bird's beak flower blooms among the dense jungle, drawing admiration from many visitors. (Photo by Wen Qingqiang)
The delicate vines, adorned with white blossoms, dangle from tree canopies, while their four-petaled flowers spread wide like wings. During a recent visit to the Huaqiao Overseas Chinese Economic Zone, the reporter spotted over a dozen species of protected plants, including the House Finch, thriving in the mountainous region.
These hawksbills are found in the Jiudao Valley, nestled within the estuary area, and often remain hidden among thick underbrush. The finch flower's structure resembles a bird’s head, with two black spots on either side that look like eyes. Its central part curves like a beak, while the petals on either side resemble wings, and one elongated petal stretches out like a tail. This unique bloom features all the elements of a bird — head, eyes, body, wings, and tail — creating an illusion of a flock of birds perched among the branches.
Locals share a charming legend about this flower. It is said that crows once feasted on taro crops, causing great frustration for farmers. One day, a local named Li Yun witnessed the damage caused by the birds and used a spell to bind them to the green vines. From then on, the crows could only appear during the Qingming Festival, and even then, they were restricted from moving their claws. Though the birds couldn’t harm the rice anymore, they never left the valley. In time, the crows were transformed into flowers by the iron crest, and the Lily became the beautiful thistle flower we see today.
Scientifically known as *Thladiantha dubia*, the thistle flower is classified as a second-class protected plant in China and has become a popular ornamental species in the region. It typically blooms between March and April, with a flowering period lasting around two weeks. These flowers thrive in shaded areas and require a well-preserved natural environment. They are hardy and resilient, but only those over 30 years old will produce flowers. The Jiukou Valley, home to the original sub-tropical forest, remains well-protected, and nearby areas like the Marabou Forest also host rare flora such as pheasants and golden retrievers.
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