Description

Part of my “Tree” series, which was inspired by the fantastically intricate banyan trees in Key West, FL.  These trees are native to India, and rely on a buttressed network of roots to support their massive branches.  The propagating roots grow downward, and once they reach the ground, they become woody trunks.  Figs produced by the trees are eaten by various bird species, like the Indian myna, and seeds that pass through the digestive tract are more likely to germinate and sprout earlier.  The largest known banyan is named, “Thimmamma Marrimanu”.  It is located in Andhra Pradesh, India and is listed in the Guinness Book of Records.  It’s canopy extends over 4.72 acres and the tree is estimated to be over 200 years old!  The banyan is the national tree of India and is considered by many to be sacred.  In Theravada Buddhism, the trees are said to have been used as the tree for achieving enlightenment.