Wuhan Launches Campaign to Protect 120-Year-Old Tree

On March 11, 2026, residents of Wuhan, central China, came together in Guishan Park to celebrate a remarkable landmark – a Chinese hackberry tree that has stood for 120 years. This gathering signified not only a tribute to the ancient tree but also the launch of a city-wide campaign aimed at protecting Wuhan's ancient trees and elevating awareness of the cultural heritage they represent.

The event saw ten enthusiastic residents visit the park to hug the towering hackberry and express their good wishes. This campaign encourages community involvement in caring for and connecting with the city's oldest living landmarks, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.

The hackberry tree, measuring approximately 28 meters in height and featuring a trunk circumference of 3.6 meters, is so expansive that four adults are needed to encircle it with their arms. To ensure the preservation of this 120-year-old giant, park officials have installed protective measures, including a safeguard ring around its base and support lines within its branches.

During the event, a senior engineer from a local garden and forestry research institute shared valuable insights into the science behind ancient trees. He explained how experts estimate the age of these majestic trees and interpret the growth rings that reveal their life stories. Participants embraced the tree, some alone while others formed a circle, wrapping their arms around its massive trunk and offering quiet blessings.

In total, Guishan Park is home to eight registered ancient trees, collectively dubbed the city's 'green relics.' These trees serve as living representatives of Wuhan's natural and cultural heritage, reminding residents of the importance of preserving such historical symbols.