A file photo of the over-120-year-old sweet-scented osmanthus tree in Zhongshan Scenic Area (CFP)

Nanjing is now home to 2,215 ancient and famous trees, with 133 new additions, according to the latest survey. This survey underpins efforts to enhance the protection and management of these iconic trees.

Ancient trees are defined as trees over 100 years old, while famous trees refer to rare or valuable species, or those with significant historical, cultural, scientific, or commemorative value.

As a historic and cultural city, Nanjing treasures these natural assets and conducts a comprehensive survey every five years, now in its seventh edition. Surveyors examined ancient and famous trees across parks, scenic spots, schools, and historic sites, verifying and updating their details.

The survey identified Zhongshan Scenic Area as having the highest concentration of ancient and famous trees. The oldest tree, an 1,800-year-old ginkgo, is located in Shangfang Village in Lishui District.

The over 1,500-year-old pine tree at Southeast University’s Sipailou Campus

The newly discovered 133 trees are mainly distributed in areas such as the Zhongshan Botanical Garden, Zhongshan Scenic Area, and Yanziji Scenic Area. Notable species include the London plane, Blue Sandlewood, Nanjing linden, cedar and ginkgo.

Nanjing’s wealth of ancient trees stems from both natural endowment and meticulous care. For example, Nanjing has established a dedicated database for all its ancient and famous trees, assigning records and caretakers to each tree, with regular inspections and growth tracking.

The city has also implemented comprehensive protection and maintenance measures, including watering, fertilizing, pruning, pest control, and, for some trees, additional support, such as fences and lightning rods.

One notable example is the over 1,500-year-old pine tree at Southeast University’s Sipailou Campus, which has undergone multiple expert evaluations. A dedicated care team manages its ongoing maintenance, continuously improving its habitat and implementing various restoration measures. As a result, the ancient tree has recently sprouted new buds.