Jingzhou is recognized as a national demonstration area for the cultivation and comprehensive processing of hickory nuts, with a hickory nuts base spanning 62,000 mu (about 4,133 hectares), the largest in Hunan Province. Hickory nuts are renowned for their health benefits; regular consumption not only nourishes the blood, enhances appetite, but also helps treat ailments such as neurasthenia and memory decline.

The cultivation of hickory nuts in Jingzhou has a history of over 300 years. The hickory nuts from the county are famous nationwide for their plump kernels, crisp texture, aromatic flavor, high oil content, and delicious taste. Currently, the county has nearly 50,000 mu (about 3,333 hectares) of walnut forests, with an annual production exceeding 2.5 million kgs and a market value approaching 100 million yuan. In the next three years, the planting scale of hickory nuts in the county is set to increase to 100,000 mu (about 6,666 hectares), with an annual output projected to reach 30,000 tons. Additionally, there will be investments to establish a 3,000-ton hickory nut oil production and processing base, aiming to strive for the title of “Hometown of Chinese Hickory Nuts”.

(Translated by Yang Hong)