The tree in India that is believed to be around 5,000 years old is the Great Banyan Tree (Ficus benghalensis). It is located in the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden, formerly known as the Indian Botanic Garden, in Shibpur, Howrah, West Bengal. This majestic tree is considered to be the oldest living tree in India and is estimated to have been planted during the 4th century BC.
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The Great Banyan Tree is a massive specimen, covering an area of approximately 14,500 square meters (1.4 hectares or 3.5 acres). It has a circumference of about 330 meters and its branches spread out in a complex network, resembling a small forest rather than a single tree. Some of the branches even appear to be individual trees themselves, as they have grown aerial prop roots that have reached the ground and taken root.
This unique growth pattern is characteristic of the Ficus benghalensis, also known as the Indian banyan tree. It is a species of fig tree that is native to the Indian subcontinent and is known for its ability to send down aerial roots that develop into separate trunks, creating a dense and interconnected canopy.
The age of the Great Banyan Tree has been determined through scientific methods such as carbon dating and historical records. Its estimated age of around 5,000 years makes it one of the oldest known living trees on Earth.
The tree has survived numerous natural disasters, including cyclones and floods, as well as man-made threats such as pollution and urban development. Over the years, it has become an iconic symbol of resilience and longevity. The authorities have taken special measures to protect and preserve this extraordinary natural wonder, including providing structural support to prevent its branches from collapsing under their own weight.
The Great Banyan Tree attracts thousands of tourists and nature lovers from around the world who come to marvel at its grandeur and learn about its rich history. Its age and size make it a living testament to the enduring power of nature and the importance of conservation efforts to protect such invaluable natural heritage.