The recently aired TV series "Flourished Peony" has sparked widespread interest and discussion. 

Mudan district, Heze, Shandong province, supplied over 2,500 peonies for the drama. The drama has not only captivated audiences with its engaging plot but has also showcased the stunning beauty of Heze's iconic flower.

The garden is a riot of color, with pink, purple, and white peonies in full bloom, their sweet fragrance filling the air. [Photo/WeChat account: sdta12301]

In the drama, peonies serve as more than just a beautiful backdrop; they symbolize the characters' emotions and destinies, weaving together the narrative threads. Beyond the screen, peonies hold significant cultural and economic value for Heze.

Heze peonies come in nine major color schemes – pink, white, black, red, yellow, blue, green, purple and multicolored. [Photo/WeChat account: sdta12301]

Every April, the city transforms into a sea of vibrant colors as tourists flock to admire the blooming flowers. Heze has developed a thriving cultural industry centered around the peony, with products such as peony seed oil, peony food, and peony cosmetics. 

Additionally, Juye county in Heze is the birthplace of 80 percent of the country's peony gongbi paintings (meticulous paintings). The paintings are sold to 40 countries and regions, with an annual output value of over 2 billion yuan ($276 million).

Exquisite culinary dishes centered around the elegant peony flower. [Photo/WeChat account: sdta12301]

Thanks to the popularity of the TV series, Heze's peonies have gained even greater recognition, with many viewers expressing their desire to visit Heze to experience the city's charm in person.