Songzhong No. 1 is the oldest surviving tea tree in the Phoenix tea area. It was selected from the natural hybrid offspring of the Wudong Mountain Phoenix Narcissus group variety. It is said to have been cultivated and propagated by villager Li during the late Southern Song Dynasty, with a history of over 600 years.

Before 1958, the tree had a high yield, producing about 8 pounds of spring tea per plant. In 1959, the tree underwent three improvements (soil, garden, and tree modifications), including removing parasitic mosses and lichens, pruning dead branches, and expanding the garden base. By 1963, the tree was thriving, producing a record 17.8 pounds of spring tea. However, its yield declined after being damaged by a mentally ill person in 1987. Later, the managing household, the Wen family, took measures to restore its vitality.

Last April, during the Songzhong harvest ceremony, the tea fetched a staggering price of one million yuan per kilogram. Due to its rarity, the current annual yield is only about 2 pounds.

The old bush has now been propagated through cuttings, forming a clonal lineage of Songzhong No. 1. It has been introduced and cultivated in various parts of Phoenix, particularly in high-altitude areas. The premium tea features a high, lasting floral and honey fragrance with distinct magnolia and honey notes. It has a rich, refreshing taste, strong sweetness, and a lingering aftertaste, with an orange-yellow liquor and excellent durability for multiple infusions!