Thousands of mu of wild rice stemfields in Liantang Town, Qingpu District, have entered full harvest season, bringing a seasonal taste of freshness unique to the Jiangnan region.

As a nationally recognizedgeographical indication product, Liantangwild rice stemhas long been hailed as “ginseng of the water.” Rooted in the fertile waterways of Liantang and nurtured by the region’s gentle, humid climate, thewild rice stemfeatures tender, plump, snow-white flesh that is crisp, sweet, soft, and residue-free. It is a beloved local flavor etched into the palates of Qingpu residents and a key industry driving rural income growth.

Farmers who workinthe fields year-round have developed expert skills. Their harvesting movements are smooth and efficient, with each farmer able to gather up to 500 kilograms ofwild rice stemsa day. This year’s open-field crop is of even better quality than in previous years, with fuller, larger stalks and stable overall yields.

Currently, Liantang Town maintains about 13,000 mu ofwild rice stemplanting area, with multiple cropping bringing the total sown area to 25,000 mu. Annual output reaches nearly 80,000 tons, with an annual production value exceeding 400 million yuan (US$589.97million).