A 300-year-old banyan in Nghia Hanh district of the central province of Quang Ngai has been recognised as a Viet Nam Heritage Tree at a ceremony held on April 15.
The tree was planted at Lam Son communal house during King Le Hien Tong’s reign (1740-1786). It is 25 meters in height and 20 meters in diameter.
Experiencing wars, disasters and floods, the tree protected local people. The current appearance of the tree reflects its long history. It was partly damaged by bombs and disasters, especially the fierce storms in 1910 and 1944. According to a note, the tree also fell in a storm. Then it has developed well thanks to the villagers’ care.
The Viet Nam Association for Conservation of Nature and Environment (VACNE) launched a programme to conserve Viet Nam Heritage Trees in 2011.To win the honour, the trees must be at least 200 years old in the case of wild trees, and at least 100 years for those planted. Moreover, the trees should be connected with historical and cultural characteristics of the area where they grow.