Researchers have identified a novel plant species with a distinct lemon fragrance in the limestone mountains of Xingyi Global Geopark, Guizhou Province. Named Neocinnamomum citratum, the discovery was recently published in the international journal PhytoKeys by scientists from Qianxinan’s Academy of Agricultural and Forestry Sciences.
The plant, initially mistaken for lemon trees due to its citrus-like aroma, thrives at altitudes of 1,000–1,300 meters. Over 100 specimens have been documented across five locations in evergreen forests. Local communities have historically used its leaves and branches as a culinary spice, hinting at untapped potential for food flavoring applications.
This discovery underscores the ecological richness of Xingyi Global Geopark, recognized by UNESCO in March 2024 for its Triassic fossils and karst landscapes. It also highlights China’s ongoing contributions to global biodiversity research, particularly in understudied regions.
