Changhua Cotton Tree Season Introduction
Dongluo River in Changhua County features a 5-kilometer-long and over 600 trees stretch of kapok trees planted along the riverside road, creating the longest and most spectacular kapok flower road in the country. In March, these flowers bloom in fiery red, forming an extensive orange-red tunnel. The Pitau Kapok Flower Road and the Erlin Kapok Flower Road are connected, adorned with blooming flowers that resemble flames burning across the sky. On one side, new green rice paddies provide a backdrop, while on the other side, the gently flowing Dongluo River creates a dreamlike landscape that attracts flower enthusiasts from all over the country. The kapok flower secret spot in Zhuhtang is smaller in scale but offers a unique atmosphere as one must cross the embankment to venture deep into the fields, making it another popular spot in spring. Recommended flower viewing locations: Dongluo Riverbanks (Pitau section, Erlin section), Zhuhtang Kapok Flower Road. *Flower conditions may vary due to weather factors; please refer to the actual situation on site.*
The kapok tree is a perennial deciduous hardwood found in tropical and subtropical regions, reaching heights of 10 to 25 meters. Its trunk is straight and has prominent thorny spikes. The tree's crown often stands taller than other surrounding trees, earning it the nickname "heroic tree." Its lateral branches grow in whorls and extend horizontally, with palm-shaped compound leaves. The kapok tree showcases different charms throughout the seasons: in spring, it bursts with orange-red foliage; in summer, its green leaves provide shade; in autumn, the branches and leaves become sparse; and in winter, it stands bare and cold. March is the most attractive season for flower viewing, with large flowers that are orange-yellow or orange-red, reddish-brown calyxes, and abundant blooms, evoking a flame-like sensation. The flower language conveys the message of "cherishing the people around you and appreciating the happiness in front of you," with the blooming period lasting about one month.
Chen Jin-neng / Photography
The Dongluo River, also known as the Old Zhuoshui River, is the lifeblood of agriculture in the southern Changhua area, irrigating the renowned Pitoa and Erlin rice. It is also called the Mother River of Changhua. The winding river is lined with various flowering trees, and some sections have been developed into bike paths. In recent years, there has been an increase in efforts for water quality purification, making it a new highlight in tourism for Changhua County. Connecting the Pitoa section to the Erlin section, the Dongluo River's kapok flower season makes a grand appearance every March. Although spring brings a riot of flowers, the kapok tree stands tall with its large orange-red blossoms, presenting a unique and magnificent beauty, reminiscent of the most fervent call to life in the vibrant spring.
