This crop is grown around the city of Datong, Shanxi province, near the Ancient Yanmen Pass. It is grown in a continental semi-arid climate. Rich in selenium, magnesium, zinc and iron, it is recommended by the UN Food and Agricultural Organization for its medicinal and food properties. The Shanxi Yanmen Qinggao Food Co is a major buckwheat manufacturer with a variety of buckwheat products, such as tea, noodles, vinegar, and snacks and even home textiles.