Wednesday, April 27, 2011

Botanic Gardens, tree

In the Royal Botanic Gardens is a Dragon's Blood Tree or Dracaena Draco, which fell over in May 2008. It won't be lifted up to its former upright position because the trunk was damaged near the base and further movement may cause it to snap off. It has been fenced off to protect the branches of damage and reduce soil compaction around the roots. This tree which is over 100 years old is a native to the Canary Islands, where they can live up to 600 years in the wild. Its common name 'Dragon's Blood Tree' comes from the bright red resin it produces, with many uses such as the production of varnish used by violin makers.

No comments:

Post a Comment