Roses are in full bloom at a platation in Pingyin county [Photo/Dazhong News]

Pingyin rose is included on the list of geographical indication products of mutual recognition and protection between China and Europe.

A geographical indication is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation due to that origin, according to the World Intellectual Property Organization.

Pingyin county in Jinan is considered the home of Chinese roses owing to its unique geographical and geological conditions. Rose cultivation in the area can be traced back over 1,300 years.

Up to now, the county has a rose planting area spanning over 60,000 mu (4,000 hectares) and is home more than 60 rose processing enterprises, which develop over 139 varieties of rose-themed products, including food, medicine, health care products, wine, beverage, cosmetics, handicrafts and home textile.