Our planet is filled with so many amazing different types of trees that remind us just how awesome nature really is!
Trees all around the world have been visited, worshipped, and celebrated. Oftentimes there is some extraordinary quality that draws people to connect with certain trees, such as their beauty, longevity, medicinal qualities, or even mythical legend passed down through generations. These natural wonders have also been known to spark inspiration for poetry, stories, and art.
Do you have a favorite tree species? If not, you might have one after reading this!
Mangrove forests are a group of trees and shrubs that live along sheltered subtropic and tropical coastlines. The species of trees that exist in mangroves have a unique capability of growing within reach of the tides in salty soil. They must also adapt to soil that lacks oxygen since often the roots are submerged under water.
Mangroves are also part of the most biologically complex ecosystems on the planet. They provide food and habitat to thousands of living things. Beneath their roots in the water they provide protection for fish and other aquatic creatures. Many fish will spend a majority of their young lives among the roots to avoid predators. Mangroves also play a very important role in protecting coastlines from storms and rising waters - which is becoming increasingly vital due to climate change.
Yikes, spikes! Kapok (Ceiba pentandra) are very large trees when fully matured. They can grow up to 230 feet high and up to 10 feet in diameter. They are also very noticeable for their huge buttresses coming from the trunk, which are large roots that stay above land. Probably the most recognizable thing is their large thorns. These thorns protect the tree from animals attempting to eat its thin bark.
The Kapok is also known as the Silk Cotton Tree because it produces pods full of fluffy fiber with seeds inside. The fiber is light so that the seeds can be carried away by the wind. This fiber has also been used to fill lifejackets, sleeping bags, pillows, and mattresses. The Mayan people of Mexico and Guatemala consider it a sacred tree and it is also the national tree of both Puerto Rico and Guatemala. It is kind of a big deal in the tree world!
The baobab tree is known as the tree of life, with good reason. It can provide shelter, clothing, food, and water for the animal and human inhabitants of the African savannah regions. The cork-like bark and huge stem are fire resistant and are used for making cloth and rope.
Wisteria is a long-lived vining plant with cascades of blue to purple flowers that look spectacular hanging from a pergola or archway in spring and early summer. However, this vine is a fast and aggressive grower—often reaching 30+ feet long—and is known to grow quite heavy. This tree is native to China, Korea, Japan, and the Eastern United States.
WOW, just look at those colors! The Rainbow Eucalyptus tree is often referred to as a “living work of art” because of the array of colors that it displays. The tree sheds bark in vertical strips which reveal a bright green color. The green begins to morph into other brilliant colors such as blue, purple, orange, and maroons. Areas of the tree shed at different times causing the tree to look like a Rainbow!
Scientifically, very little research has been done to explain WHY the tree changes colors. Researchers believe that when the bark sheds, the tree’s chlorophyll is then exposed which gives off the bright green color. As the top surface ages it begins to fill with pigments called tannins. A combination of the tannins and aging chlorophyll could explain why the Rainbow Eucalyptus is one of the most colorful trees in the world.
All that green must be good for the soul! The Sagano Bamboo Forest is located on the outskirts of Kyoto, Japan. Visitors come from all over to visit the must see destination. One of the greatest draws to this bamboo forest is the soundscape that can be heard. When the wind passes through the tall slender trunks it creates tranquil noises of the trees knocking and leaves rustling.
Located right outside of the forest are major temples of Kyoto. Oftentimes Buddhist temples and shrines can be found near bamboo groves because bamboo is often a symbol of good luck and strength. When the sun shines through the densely packed trees it creates a stunning visual display. Is the Sagano Bamboo Forest on your bucket list?
This photo really makes you realize the strength of a tree! This is Ta Prohm, a Buddhist monastery and center of learning that was built in 1186! As you can see this Strangler Fig tree has taken over the structure. The buildings were abandoned by humans but the forests of Cambodia wasted no time moving in. Many silk-cotton and strangler fig trees can be found rooted and winding in loosened stones of the temple.
The structure was built as part of a larger temple called Angkor Wat. In the early 20th century French Archeologists rediscovered the buildings. While it may look like an untouched gem in the forest, it is actually maintained to ensure that visitors can safely witness its beauty. Isn't it amazing?!
The Sakura or Cherry Blossom Tree belongs to the sub family Rosaceae. Although the tree can be found in the United States it originally comes from Japan where it is the most planted and beloved tree. The tree usually reaches peak blossom in mid March and signifies springtime for many.
A favorite past time in Japan is to sit beneath the blooming tree to eat and drink with loved ones. This is called Hanami which means to look at the flowers. Which essentially is what you are doing while sitting beneath the tree. The tree has deep meaning as well. For instance, the flowers signify spiritual beauty and education. Doesn’t a picnic beneath all that delicate pink in the beginning of spring sound delightful?
The amount of amazing trees out in the world is without numbering but we hope you enjoyed some of these beauties that remind us the magic that happens in nature!
Credit: https://matadornetwork.com/
Credit: https://onetreeplanted.org/blogs
