The snow lotus, a specialty and a rare herb produced in Northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, grows in the crevices in rocks scattered above the snow level on the mountains of Tianshan, Altai, and Kunlun. It is a perennial herb and grows slowly although with strong vitality. Usually, only 5 percent of the seeds can sprout, and the plant requires three years of growth to reach fruition.

Due to the low temperature, the snow does not melt in spring and autumn. Growing in this environment, the property of snow lotus is lukewarm and tastes a little bit bitter. It enhances the Yang, the essence of male energy, and regulates the Ying, the essence of female activity.