28 December 2017

Mother Tree (#ThursdayTreeLove)

Temple, Crocodile, Ficus

This tree caught my eye for two reasons, the interesting growth on its branch and a profusion of greenery at the base of its trunk.

As I went closer, it was clear that this was a very old Peepal (see the reddish heart shaped young leaves with typical pointy tips). The tree itself seemed to be a mother for the several species growing on or under or around it providing shade, support and nutrition. It doesn't seem to discriminate between them. I am quite sure several animals must have made a residence there as well. 

I wonder how old must the Peepal be? 


Kerala, Ficus, Temple

Here is a another view of the branches.. The brown growth is a fern called Drynaria quercifolia or Oak Leaf Fern or Pocket Fern. 
Fern, Pocket fern, Drynaria


This is at the Ananthapura Lake Temple near Kasaragod in Kerala. This temple is known for its resident crocodile in the lake but we did not see it... 

I am participating in Parul's #ThursdayTreeLove30 . Do head over for some amazing trees from around the world!

10 comments:

Alana said...

Peepal - a new tree for me. I don't think I've ever seen such a profusion of different plants growing up a tree - it is, indeed, a mother.

Esha said...

I think the captures are lovely. Trees have such immense variety...I've heard and read so much about the Peepul but would never have been able to tell that this was one unless you mentioned it. Very interesting how you talk of it has providing nurture and protection not just to other plants but also to animals.

Archana said...

@Alana - Peepal is a Ficus variety - Ficus religiosa to be precise. It is seen in many parts of my country. So happy that you could stop by .. Thanks :)

Archana said...

@Esha - There is so much to learn from nature as in your post this week :-) Thanks for stopping by!

Dr Genevive Angela said...

Rightly said, its a mother tree.... can see how the tree has borne the weather for all seasons and am sure just like a mother who is always giving and making space for young ones... the word that comes to my mind looking at this tree is commitment and sacrifice... awesome have never seen a tree like this, and peepal tree always inspires as I related it to Lord Buddha

Archana said...

@Angela Such a wonderful thought! Truly an inspirational tree.. Thanks for stopping by :)

Parul said...

What an old tree that nourishes the environment. I love that you share the scientific names and more about the tree. Thank you for joining and making 2017, memorable.

Archana said...

@Parul Enjoying your blog hop! Have a great 2018!

Anamika Agnihotri said...

The world of trees is fascinating in itself. I have never seen Peepal tree in this form. The name - Mother tree is apt for this tree. This one has an ecosystem in it.

arv said...

Peepul tree hold immense value in Indian customs and rituals. This one doesn't resemble a typical Peepul tree though