Unique pair of heritage trees at Tru Khe Communal House
In the Tru Khe communal house campus, Kien An ward, Hai Phong city, 2 heritage trees over 300 years old associated with the history of the communal house are preserved by the people as spiritual cultural symbols.
Alongside its historical significance, the communal compound is home to two trees: a bodhi and a bombax, each over three centuries old and officially recognized as ‘Vietnam Heritage Trees’ a decade ago.
Despite many trials over the centuries, both giants still radiate green shade and are inseparable from the communal house’s landscape.
Deputy Head of the Tru Khe relic management board Vu Khac Hien said that decades ago the bodhi’s trunk was so large three to four adults could barely encircle it; its broad canopy once shaded the entire compound.
However, the tree once faced possible death after being toppled by a strong storm in 1996. Thanks to care from local people, the bodhi has since recovered. Each spring new green shoots mix with the yellowing old leaves, producing a special beauty against the quiet backdrop of the communal house.
Not far away, the bombax near the side gate is also more than three centuries old. If the bodhi bears visible scars from storms, the bombax displays vigorous life: its wide, cool canopy covers a corner of the courtyard and the front ceremonial building.
Every March, clusters of bright red bombax flowers light up the sky, forming a striking accent amid the site’s old architecture.
Hai Phong News