The story of the sea almond tree - a heritage tree on Song Tu Tay Island.
(Baonghean.vn) - In the Truong Sa archipelago, there is not only sunshine, wind, and storms, but also many Barringtonia trees, a species that can withstand harsh weather conditions. In particular, at Song Tu Tay, there is a Barringtonia tree that was recognized as a Heritage Tree in 2014.
The Barringtonia trees on Song Tu Tay Island are approximately 300 years old, associated with the presence of fishermen from Phu Khanh province who used to sail there.Truong SaFishing and trading with foreign ships began in the 17th century.
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The trunk of the Barringtonia tree on Song Tu Tay Island is so thick that it takes two people to encircle it. Photo: Tien Dong |
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Due to its slow growth, the tree trunk is marked with rough, gnarled bark. Photo: Quang An |
According to our research, the sea almond tree is a plant belonging to the family Trichoderma (also known as the Trichoderma family). It originates from tropical Asia, Madagascar, and northern Australia. Sea almond trees grow very slowly; mature trees only reach a height of 3-4 meters after 10 years. They can regenerate from seeds and sprouts. Due to their wide growth range, ability to thrive in coastal and island areas, tolerance to storms and saltwater, and suitability for coral reefs, they are often planted along coastlines to act as windbreaks and stabilize sand.
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In 2014, the tree was recognized as a Vietnamese Heritage Tree by the Vietnam Association for Nature and Environment Protection. Photo: Tien Dong |
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The officers and soldiers on Song Tu Tay Island regularly care for and protect this heritage tree, ensuring it remains lush and green. Photo: Quang An |
Lieutenant Colonel Le Ngoc Nam - Deputy Political Officer of Song Tu Tay Island shared: The sea almond tree onSong Tu Tay IslandIt is currently located behind the island's Command Headquarters. The tree is approximately 25 meters tall from the ground, with a canopy 35 meters wide. On April 14, 1975, when Song Tu Tay Island was liberated, it was already considered one of the oldest trees on the island. Despite the harsh weather conditions, the tree remains lush and green. Notably, in December 2021, Typhoon No. 9, with winds reaching level 16, swept through the island, causing about 90% of the trees to fall or break, but this Barringtonia tree remained standing. In 2014, the Vietnam Association for the Protection of Nature and Environment recognized this Barringtonia tree as a Vietnamese Heritage Tree.
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Certificate recognizing the tree as a heritage tree. Photo: Tien Dong |
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Flowers of the sea almond tree. Photo: Quang An |
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| The evergreen trees of the Barringtonia tree provide cool shade, alleviating the heat of Truong Sa. Photo: Tien Dong |
According to many accounts, the Barringtonia tree on Song Tu Tay Island grew naturally. When fishermen came to Song Tu Tay Island to harvest seafood, this tree was already there. For the soldiers and civilians on Song Tu Tay Island, this Barringtonia tree is as close as a trusted friend, witnessing many joyful and sad memories of the soldiers on Truong Sa Island.
