Originally grown in Mainland China, Europe and Siberia, great burdocks were imported to Taiwan from Japan, during the time of Japanese occupation. In Japan, great burdock is regarded as a daily dish in a family and also described as “a choice to increase masculinity”. In Taiwan, great burdocks have been listed among the high economic-value farm produces. Easily stored by freezing, they are available all year round. A number of varieties include Liuchuan Lihsiang, Pai Chi, Lung Yeh Chuan, Kui Pai Chi, and Tungpei Lihsiang.
It has a long cylindrical body with a rhizome that lengths 1~2 meters, looking like a bull's tail. The skin is dark brown in color. And its flesh tastes tender, sweet and palatable, containing bountiful protein, fat, fiber, calcium, phosphor, iron, potassium and Vitamin B & C. As it contains “steviosides”, it is suitable for diabetics. The main part to eat is its rhizome that is free from air pollution and pesticide and suffers from less impairment of pests. Great burdock tea is characterized by its special flavor.

◆Production Season : All year round.
◆Cultivation Regions : Tainan, Yilan, Changhua, Yunlin and Pingtung counties.
◆Requirements for Selection : Choose ones that are over 60cm with a diameter of above 2cm. It should have smooth tender peel without tertiary roots and the body should be straight without forks. The center should not be hollow and the whole body looks fresh and heavy for its size.

◆ Composition of Nutrition (%) : Calorie 98, moisture 74, protein 2.5, fat 0.7, carbohydrates 21.8, fiber 1.7, ash 1, Vitamin A, B1, & C, sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, & iron.