In early autumn, some 36,000 sunflowers in Nanning People’s Park burst into bloom, dressing the rolling flower beds in a warm blanket of gold and romance.

Under blue skies, the blooms sway in the breeze, releasing a gentle scent while butterflies and bees flit among the heads. The undulating fields stack layer upon layer, and from above the patchwork of green, yellow and winding paths looks like a vivid oil painting.

The beds are planted with the ‘Firecracker’ variety, which originates in North America and grows about 60 to 90 centimeters tall. It branches, and its petals carry a red halo. The massed blooms resemble a string of fireworks—hence the name. Many residents and visitors stroll the lakeside paths, snap photos, and soak up the floral romance.