A thriving red dragonfly
Hung Hom, a name that carries a poetic charm, has long been celebrated in classical Chinese literature. Scholars once described the red dragonfly with vivid imagery: "Qiubohong drowned in water, and Xiqingyisha in the evening light; Baijuyi was in the red dragonfly's head, and Yinshaji in the sand," as noted by Xue Zhaoyun. Another verse by Zhang Xiaoxiang reads, "Red Dragonfly Bay, a pattern of chaos, white fish two-tail Jade Knife Ming." And Lu You wrote, "A few branches of Red Dragonfly drunk in clear autumn." These poetic references reflect the deep cultural significance of this plant.
According to *The Book of Songs and Plant Illustrations*, the red dragonfly is also known as Yu Long, Hung Hong, and Yu Gu. Zheng Kangcheng explained that it is called Yu Long because it "brings the leaves and leaves," suggesting its lush, spreading nature. In *The Book of Songs, Zheng Feng - Shan You Fu Su*, the poet uses the red dragonfly as a metaphor for Qiao Song, expressing disappointment in a lover who lacks seriousness. The lines, "There are bridges in the mountains and pines in the mountains. Deaf children," evoke a low-lying wetland setting—now recognized as a national protected wetland.
Botanically, 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, ranging from 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 coated with fine hairs, and the veins are densely arranged. The stipule sheath is tubular, green at the top, expanding into a ring-like structure with ciliate edges. The inflorescence appears at the top or in the axils, with ovate sepals and long-ciliate margins. The pink flowers, often grouped within each bract, resemble dog tails and are commonly called "red clams" or "dog tail flowers." They bloom from July to September and produce fruit from September to October.
Originally a wild plant, Hung Hom has become widely cultivated due to its rapid growth, lush foliage, and striking red flowers, making it ideal for ornamental use. It thrives in various soils and is drought-resistant, requiring minimal care. It is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it easy to manage. The fruit of the red dragonfly has medicinal properties, including promoting blood circulation, relieving pain, and acting as a diuretic. In summer, dried leaves are used to repel mosquitoes and flies, though they emit a spicy, smoky aroma.
Hung Hom is an excellent choice for garden landscaping, offering beauty through its stems, leaves, and vibrant flowers. It can be planted in courtyards, along walls, or near building corners. Its versatility makes it a popular choice for both urban and natural settings.
In the fall, when the seeds mature, collect them and store them in a dry place. Sow the seeds in March, covering them with 2–3 cm of fine soil. Water regularly using a watering can, about twice a week. Once seedlings emerge, space them about 20 cm apart. During dry periods, water once or twice a week to ensure strong growth. As a perennial with rhizomes, it grows rapidly and produces more vigorous blooms in its first year than from seeds.
Hung Hom can also be grown indoors using simple water propagation. Cut a branch, place it in a vase with water, and after a few days, it will root and grow in water. Placing it on a windowsill or desk not only enhances indoor humidity but also adds a touch of natural beauty.
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