As the cradle of tremella, Tongjiang County enjoys
a mild and humid climate which is very suitable for edible fungus. It
has been favorably known as “Town of Chinese Tremella”. Tongjiang is
located in Bazhong City of Daba Mountains in Sichuan and it was first
originated from Fuyang. For Tongjiang Tremella grows in a special natural
environment and climate, some experts say that it is given birth by
the aura of the heaven and the earth and absorbs the essence of the
sun and moon. In addition, the superiority of Tongjiang tremella also
owes to the host. Its host is limited to green oak which must between
7 and 8 years old. What is interesting is that although it is taboo
for people to burn pods to cook peas, Tongjiang Tremella must be grilled
slowly on the charcoal made from oaks in order to maintain its nutritive
components.
Chen Township map
Chenhe Township lies in the west of Tongjiang County. The place, which is 37km away from the county town, is the cradle land and major producing area of Tongjiang Tremella. Chenhe has a population of 13,697 and covers an area of 112.74 square kilometers, of which 10,116 mu is cultivated land. The forest acreage of the township is 73.8%. It is located 440 – 1570 meters above sea level. The average annual rainfall here is 1,288mm and the average temperature is 16.7℃. The frost-free period here is as long as 280 days.