PolyU Library
Journal Call no.AP8.W56
AuthorLi, Jin.
Article TitleUnique fruit fosters prosperity / Li Jin.
Is Part OfWindow ; v.5, no.29, 2 Aug 1996, p.26, illus.
AbstractThe gourd (cucurbita, lagenaria or trichosanthes) is a symbol of safety and good luck in China. This plant of many varieties has been cultivated there for more than 7,000 years. People eat them while they are succulent and tender or use them as containers for various objects when they are dry and hard. They are also used in Chinese medicine. In the cities, gourds are now mostly used as items of room decor rather than utility. But in rural areas, they are both - and more.