A thriving red dragonfly
Hung Hom, a name that carries poetic charm, has long been admired by scholars and poets. They often used vivid imagery to depict the red dragonfly, such as: "Qiu Bo Hong drowns in water, while Xi Qing Yi Sha shines in the evening light; Bai Ju Yi's head is adorned with a red dragonfly, and Yin Sha Ji lies on the sand." — Xue Zhaoyun. Another verse reads: "Red Dragonfly Bay, a scene of chaos, white fish with two tails like jade knives from Ming." — Zhang Xiaoxiang. And "A few branches of Red Dragonfly drunk in clear autumn." — Lu You.
According to the *Book of Songs and Plant Illustrations*, the red dragonfly was known as Yu Long, Hung Hung, and Yu Gu. Zheng Kangcheng noted that it was called Yu Long because it "brings leaves and flowers," symbolizing vitality and growth. In the *Book of Songs*, specifically in *Zheng Feng Shan You Su*, the poet compares the red dragonfly to Qiao Song, using it as a metaphor to scold her lover for being careless and lacking seriousness in major matters. The lines "There are bridges in the mountains, and pines in the mountains. Deaf children" reflect a low-lying wetland, which today is recognized as a national protected wetland.
Hung Hom is a perennial herb with strong roots and erect, thick stems that are slightly swollen at the nodes and hollow. It has upper branches covered in dense hair. The leaves are broadly elliptical, measuring 7 to 20 cm in length and 4 to 10 cm in width, with an acute tip and rounded or slightly heart-shaped base. Both sides of the leaves are covered with dense veins. The stipule sheath is tubular, green at the top, expanding into a ring-like structure that extends outward, with ciliate edges. The inflorescence appears at the top or in the axils. The sepals are ovate and long-ciliated, and the pink flowers bloom within each bract, resembling dog tails. These flowers are also known as "dog tail flowers." The flowering season runs from July to September, and the fruiting period is from September to October.
Originally a wild plant, Hung Hom has become widely cultivated due to its rapid growth, lush foliage, and dense red flowers, making it ideal for ornamental purposes. It is adaptable to various soil types and can tolerate both drought and moisture. It is resistant to pests and diseases, requiring minimal care. The fruit of the red dragonfly has medicinal properties, including promoting blood circulation, relieving pain, and acting as a diuretic. In summer, when dried, it is used to repel mosquitoes and flies, though its spicy scent may be overwhelming.
Hung Hom is an excellent choice for garden landscaping, as its stems, leaves, and flowers are visually appealing. It can be planted in courtyards, along walls, or near garden corners.
In the fall, when the seeds of the red dragonfly mature, they should be collected and stored in a dry place. Sow them in March in the desired location, covering them with 2–3 cm of fine soil. Water regularly with a watering can, about twice a week. After the seedlings emerge, space them approximately 20 cm apart. During dry periods, water once or twice a week to ensure healthy growth. As a perennial plant, it grows quickly through rhizomes, becoming particularly vigorous in its first year, with more abundant blooms than those from seeds.
Even indoors, Hung Hom can thrive in water. Simply cut a branch, place it in a vase with water, and after a few days, it will root and grow underwater. Placing it on a windowsill or desk not only enhances indoor humidity but also adds a touch of natural beauty.
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