Blooming Mongolian tulips are captured in the Gogestai Khan Uul National Nature Reserve. [Photo by Zhou Yao]

Recently, botanist Zhou Yao from Tonghua Normal University in Jilin province witnessed and recorded the blooming stage of rare and endangered Mongolian tulips. The flowers were found in the Gogestai Khan Uul National Nature Reserve, which is under the jurisdiction of Chifeng in North China's Inner Mongolia autonomous region.

Mongolian tulips are scarce and classified as a second-level protected plant in China. Since the 1970s, they have been elusive in the wild, once believed to be functionally extinct in their natural habitat.

Last May, staff at the Gogestai Khan Uul National Nature Reserve stumbled upon a peculiar flower while performing their monitoring duties.

Experts confirmed the Mongolian tulip sighting, recognizing its significant scientific value for biodiversity conservation and the study of rare and endangered plants.

A blooming Mongolian tulip in the Gogestai Khan Uul National Nature Reserve. [Photo by Zhou Yao]

Described by Zhou Yao, the Mongolian tulip is a perennial herbaceous plant, standing between 10 and 25 centimeters in height. Its vibrant yellow flowers bloom in May and bear fruit in June.

Thriving in grasslands with sandy soil cover, it is exclusive to Inner Mongolia, representing the easternmost distribution of tulips globally.

Since the rediscovery of the Mongolian tulip in the wild, the Gogestai Khan Uul National Nature Reserve has enforced strict protection measures. Coupled with ample winter snowfall that creates a moist growth environment, this year's blossoms are vivid and abundant, covering an estimated 5 mu (0.33 hectares) area.

Located at the southern foothills of the Greater Hinggan Mountains Range, the Gogestai Khan Uul National Nature Reserve serves as a vital water source conservation area between the Xiliao River and Xiliin Gol Grassland.

It preserves diverse ecosystems covering forests, grasslands, and wetlands, all of which provide a sanctuary for a plethora of rare wildlife and plants.

Blooming Mongolian tulips are captured in the Gogestai Khan Uul National Nature Reserve. [Photo by Zhou Yao]