Impact of traditional culture on Camellia reticulata in Yunnan, China. Issue 1 (December 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Xin, Tong; de Riek, Jan; Guo, Huijun; Jarvis, Devra; Ma, Lijuan; Long, Chunlin
• Is Part Of: Journal of ethnobiology and ethnomedicine. Volume 11:Issue 1(2015)
• Page Start: 1
• Page End: 11
• Publication Date: 2015-12
• Subjects: Ethnobotany -- Camellia reticulata -- Cha-Hua -- Traditional culture -- Biodiversity; Medical anthropology -- Periodicals; Ethnobiology -- Periodicals; Ethnobotany -- Periodicals; Traditional medicine -- Periodicals; 306.461
• DOI: 10.1186/s13002-015-0059-6
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1746-4269

Abstract

Abstract Background Cha-hua (Camellia reticulata ) is one of China's traditional ornamental flowers developed by the local people of Yunnan Province. Today, more than 500 cultivars and hybrids are recognized. Many ancient camellia trees still survive and are managed by local peopl. A few records oncha-hua culture exist, but no studies expound the interaction betweenC. reticulata and traditional culture of ethnic groups. The contribution of traditional culture of different nationalities and regions to the diversity ofCamellia reticulate is discussed. Methods Ethnobotanical surveys were conducted throughout Central and Western Yunnan to investigate and document the traditional culture related toCamellia reticulata . Five sites were selected to carry out the field investigation. Information was collected using participatory observation, semi-structured interviews, key informant interviews, focus group discussions, and participatory rural appraisal (PRA). Results Most of the ancient camellia trees were preserved or saved in the courtyards of old buildings and cultural or religious sites. Religion-associated culture plays an important role inC. reticulata protection. In every site we investigated, we found extensive traditional culture onC. reticulata and its management. These traditional cultures have not only protected the germplasm resources ofC. reticulata, but also improved the diversity ofCamellia cultivars. Conclusions There are abundant and diverse genetic resources ofcha-hua, Camellia reticulata in Yunnan.Cha-hua is not only an ornamental flower but also has been endowed with rich spiritual connotation. The influence of traditional culture had improved the introduction and domestication of wild plants, breeding and selection of different varieties, and the propagation and dissemination of the tree in Yunnan. However, either some ancientcha-hua trees or their associated traditional culture are facing various threats. The oldcha-hua trees and the ethnic camellia culture should be respected and protected since they have made great contributions in the history, and will make more contributions in the future.