Huangyan, a county-level city in East China's Zhejiang province, is officially accredited as the birthplace of mandarin oranges. [Photo/taizhou.com.cn]

Huangyan, a county-level city in East China's Zhejiang province, has been officially accredited as the birthplace of mandarin oranges, according to a report unveiled by the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences on Nov 14.

The report, based on research findings by the Citrus Research Institute at the CAAS, was released at the inaugural China Important Agricultural Culture Heritage Conference & 2020 Huangyan Citrus Tourism Festival.

Huangyan has been growing citrus fruit for more than 1,700 years, as early as the Three Kingdoms period (220-280 AD). The fruits were once used as a tribute to the court during the Tang Dynasty (618-907).

When people hear the name Huangyan, the first thing that comes to mind is mandarin oranges, which have become a trademark of the city.

In early autumn, the oranges are especially popular for their fragrant smell and sweet and sour taste.

In 2007, Huangyan mandarin oranges were added to the national list of geographical indications. In 2010, oranges produced in the district were listed among the top 10 mandarin oranges in China.