The Myricaria laxiflora is a deciduous shrub of the family Tamaricaceae. It is mainly distributed in beaches and rock crevices in the water-level fluctuation zone of the Yangtze River.

It is endemic in the water-level fluctuation zone of the Three Gorges Reservoir area. It is only distributed in Sichuan Province, Chongqing City and Hubei Province in the Yangtze River basin. It was once considered to be extinct and confirmed as an extremely endangered species.

The Myricaria laxiflora has a magical feature. During the annual flood season, it can be submerged at the bottom of the river for up to 5 months without dying. It will regenerate once the flood season is over. It will grow green needle-like leaves, and bloom white or pink flowers. Meantime, its root system is well-developed, which is helpful for soil reinforcement and greening in the water-level fluctuation zone of the river beach. This has positive significance for restoring the ecological environment of the Yangtze River and improving the scenery along the banks of the Yangtze River.