Preliminary research on the tree culture of ancient camphor trees in Wuyuan County, Jiangxi Province

Abstract

Wuyuan County,Jiangxi Province is one of the cultural resource areas of the ancient Huizhou Prefecture. There are many ancient trees and camphor tree woodland has been well preserved in this area. In this study we unveil the plant culture of these ancient camphor trees. Trees up to 100 years old were investigated in Wuyuan County with field surveys and literature research. In total 1479 trees are distributed across 23 towns in the county; nearly one third are located in Jiangwan and Zhentou towns. Approximately 89% of the 1479 trees are recognized as the third class of ancient tree,which means they were planted during the Ming and Qing Dynasties. Approximately 86% of ancient camphor trees are located in gardens at entrances to villages. The success of ancient camphor trees in Wuyuan County shows that the Huizhou merchants had created a large number of gardens during Ming and Qing Dynasties. The good preservation of these trees can be attributed to the strong patriarchal system and the prevalent geomantic culture in ancient Wuyuan County. This custom,which originated from respect for family values,influences the relationship between mankind and nature.