Wu Fan Guo (Vaccinium bracteatum) — Dried South Candle Fruit for Herbal Tea & Congee

Wu Fan Guo (Vaccinium bracteatum), also known as Nan Zhu Zi (南烛子) or Black Rice Fruit, is the dried ripe fruit of a traditional food-herb shrub long revered in Chinese folk culture. For centuries it has been prized as a gentle, astringent, and kidney-nourishing fruit, traditionally used to support the Liver and Kidney, strengthen the essence, and brighten the eyes. Its nature is sweet, sour, and slightly warm, making it a mild yet nourishing ingredient for daily teas, congee, and seasonal tonics.

Key Selling Points

• Traditional food-herb fruit used in folk wellness
• Dried Vaccinium bracteatum berries
• Also known as Nan Zhu Zi and Black Rice Fruit
• Suitable for herbal tea, congee, and decoctions
• Selected, clean, loose bulk quality

Quality & Sensory

Each batch is carefully sun-dried to preserve its deep purple-black color, wrinkled yet plump texture, and mild fruity aroma. When simmered or steeped, the berries release a gentle sweet-sour flavor with a soft, earthy undertone, tinting the water a rich violet hue and adding depth to teas and grain dishes.

Technical Specifications

Usage Scenarios

• Herbal tea blends
• Congee and grain porridge
• Traditional decoctions
• Seasonal tonic soups
• Daily food-herb nourishment

Traditional Uses

In folk herbal practice, Wu Fan Guo is decocted into teas, congee, and nourishing soups to support daily vitality. It is a classic ingredient in black rice congee, where it lends its deep color and gentle sweet-sour taste. As a tea, it is brewed alone or blended with goji berry, jujube, and mulberry for a warming, kidney-nourishing infusion enjoyed during cooler seasons.

FAQ Q&A