Forest of Common Camellias at Baengnyeonsa Temple, Gangjin

Basic information

Designation

Natural Monument No.151

Category

동식물

Designated year

1962

Location

강진군, 전라남도— 전남 강진군 도암면 백련사길 125 (만덕리)

Coordinates

34.587227, 126.747379

Distributed in Japan, China, and Korea, the Camellia grows on the south coast or on the islands of Korea. Its beautiful flowers blossom in early spring. Depending on the blossoming season, the Camellia is called "Camellia in spring," "Camellia in fall," or "Camellia in winter." The Forest of Common Camellias is near Baengnyeonsa Temple and is composed of 1,500 Camellias. They are about 7m in height. The history of the Camellia forest is not certain. Note, however, that Dasan chodang, the exile of Jeong Yak-yong who studied about "Dado,” is near the Camellia forest. "Dado" means teaching truth through tea. Therefore, the Camellia forest is presumed to be related to Jeong Yak-yong. The Camellia is a representative tree growing in the subtropical and temperate zones of South Korea. Since the forest of Common Camellias at Baengnyeonsa Temple is historically valuable, it is designated and protected as a Natural Monument.

Location