High in the mountains of the Chaqingsongduo National Nature Reserve, nestled within the Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of southwest China’s Sichuan Province, a remarkable plant thrives—Chinese stellera. Known locally as the “wolf poison plant” due to its toxic coumarin content, this unassuming flora holds a venerable place in Tibetan culture.
Despite its poisonous nature, the rhizome of Chinese stellera is rich in bast fibers, making it an ideal material for papermaking. For over a millennium, Tibetan communities have harnessed these fibers to produce durable and resilient paper. This traditional craft not only reflects the resourcefulness of the Tibetan people but also preserves a cultural heritage passed down through generations.
The papermaking process is intricate and deeply rooted in local customs. Harvesting the Chinese stellera requires knowledge of the plant’s properties to ensure safety. Once collected, the fibers undergo meticulous preparation before being transformed into paper—a testament to the harmony between the people and their natural environment.
The continued practice of this ancient technique highlights the significance of biodiversity in the Chaqingsongduo National Nature Reserve. The reserve serves as a bastion for conservation, supporting both the ecological richness of the region and the cultural practices of its inhabitants.
As modernity encroaches upon traditional ways of life, efforts to sustain such practices are crucial. The story of Chinese stellera and Tibetan papermaking embodies the enduring connection between humans and nature, emphasizing the importance of preserving this bond for future generations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
