The legendary plane tree of Zhongshan Park transitions from hidden gem to icon

At Gate 3 of Zhongshan Park, a 159-year-old plane tree resembling a giant umbrella, numbered 0909, has become a sensation.

Historical records indicate that in 1866, Sir Thomas Hanbury, an Italian, brought it from his homeland and gifted it to British real estate developer H. Fogg. Hogg planted the plane tree in his private garden, Jessfield Park. Since then, it has taken root by the Suzhou Creek, quietly witnessing many changes around it: Jessfield Park became Zhongshan Park, Jessfield Road was renamed Wanhangdu Road, and the nearby St. John's University transformed into East China University of Political Science and Law.

Over the years, the sapling has grown into a towering tree, now standing 22 meters tall with a trunk about 5 meters thick and a canopy spanning 24 meters, making it the tallest, thickest, and widest plane tree in East China.

In September 2022, the wall on the Wanhangdu Road side of Zhongshan Park was removed, allowing the plane tree to transition from a hidden corner of the park to a prominent feature on Wanhangdu Road, attracting many visitors.

To ensure the century-old plane tree coexists harmoniously with the public, the greenery department removed the park's original management building, expanding the protection area for the ancient tree. Infrared alarm devices and surveillance systems were installed to minimize disturbances to the root system. Additionally, an information system for the ancient tree was implemented to record data such as wind speed, temperature, and humidity, providing strong support for a precise protection plan tailored to the tree.

With the renovation of Zhongshan Park, changes are evident. From Gate 3 to Gate 2, a 700-meter shaded path extends from the ancient tree, connecting to the terminal of Bus 20. Across from the tree is the public space of the Suzhou Creek East China University of Political Science and Law section, allowing both pedestrians and commuters to fully appreciate the unique charm of this ancient tree.

During the Year of the Snake Spring Festival, Zhongshan Park collaborated with a representative inheritor of the Baina textile intangible cultural heritage to create a colorful garment for this century-old tree, making it a popular new attraction for citizens and tourists during the holiday.