Retusa Fringe Tree of Cheongok-ri, Gimhae

Basic information

Designation

Natural Monument No.307

Category

동식물

Designated year

1982

Location

김해시, 경상남도— 경남 김해시 주촌면 천곡리 885외 4필

Coordinates

35.232827, 128.828811

Retusa fringe tree is named “Ipamnamu” in Korean. There are two folk origins about the name of the tree. Some say, the name “Ibap,” literally meaning "rice," stemmed from the fact that its white blossoms resemble cooked rice. Others say, it once had the name “Iphamok” in Korean (a tree growing in early summer), since this tree blossoms when summer starts. This name was changed to “Ipamnamu”. In some places, there is a saying that, when this tree is in full blossom, there will be a good harvest. The tree in Cheongok-ri, Gimhae is about 500 years old and is 18.3m tall. The trunk of this tree is divided into two. This tree is relatively big with thick branches. Some of the branches rotted, so they were removed or repaired. As mentioned, the blossoms of this tree foretell the year's harvest. This Tree usually grows in a place with lots of water. Therefore, the tree is in full bloom with the proper amount of rain, without which it does not bloom well. The water amount is important in rice crop. As a result of long observation through experience, this result seems to be true. Since the retusa fringe in Cheongok-ri, Gimhae has been under our ancestors' care and protection and is also biologically valuable, it is designated and protected as a Natural Monument.

Location