Province South Jeolla Province | ||
Address 376 Samin-ri, Byeongyeong-myeon, Gangjin, Jeollanam-do, South Korea | ||
Japanese Torreya is a coniferous tree found in Japan and Korea. Its original name was the Torreya nucifera of Byoung Young-myun', but was changed to its present name in April 2008. In Korea, they grow in the southern areas of Naejangsan Mountain. Because of their beautiful shapes they are often planted in nearby houses. The seeds are used for medicine and oils. The Japanese Torreya of Samin-ri, Gangjin, is about 500 years old and is South Korea's 39th National Monument.
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Uses
The tree is frequently used as an ornament due to its shape. Its fruit has laxative properties and is used for anthelmintics or as medicine for the treatment of constipation. The specimen in Kang Jin-gu, Sam In-li is about 500 years old and measures 11.5m in height and 5.8m in circumference. Approximately 1.5m from the ground, a large branch splits into four smaller branches. The area below has been reinforced with stone retaining walls, but the remaining root space is now very small. Villagers consider this tree as a village guardian so they pray to this tree for peace and safety every January 15th. Since it has been carefully preserved by the villagers and has great value as a historical and cultural property, Japanese Torreya of Samin-ri is designated and conserved as a natural monument.
History
The area surrounding the tree was home to an army garrison established by King Taejong (r. 1400–1418) that was in existence until 1894. Two theories attempt to explain how this tree avoided being harvested for lumber for approximately 500 years. In 1417, people living in the area cut down all the trees that could be used to build the headquarters of the lieutenant general, but the Kang Jin tree was too small at that time and was slightly bent. Since it was considered inappropriate for architectural lumber, it was ignored.
A second theory is that this tree's fruit was a remedy to treat parasitic infections. The villages and people near the tree protected it. The people from Sam In-li now consider this tree to be the guardian of the town and hold an annual celebration on 15 January where they parade around the tree, praying for peace. The tree can also serve as a refuge from the heat of the summer. The tree is protected as part of the region's National Heritage.