EPOW - Ecology Picture of the Week

Coupled Camphor Trees

Camphor Tree (Cinnamomum camphora), Family Lauraceae
Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine, Tokyo, Japan

Explanation:  It is the holiday season in much of the world!  Although evergreen, these are not traditional Christmas trees. But they hold a most interesting significance.

  
  

 

These are Japanese camphor trees,
planted here at Meiji Jingu Shinto Shrine, Tokyo, Japan.  

The trees are maintained for veneration,
and to help celebrate long and happy
marriage ties (note the ropes binding the
two trees!).

And here is the special nature of these plantings,
as noted in the nearby information sign:

 

Whether marking a specific holiday season or not,
what can always be honored is protection of the elderly,
happy marriage, harmonious life, and
respecting the power of trees and nature.

Happy Holidays from Ecology Picture of the Week!