Vietnam Association for Conservation of Nature and Environment

3 Gừa trees in Vàm Hồ Bird Park are recognized as Vietnam Heritage Trees.

9/12/2025 6:56:00 AM

(VACNE) – On the afternoon of September 11, 2025, the People's Committee of My Chanh Hoa Commune (Vinh Long Province) solemnly held a ceremony to receive the certificate recognizing Vietnam Heritage Trees for three Gừa trees in the Hai Van Farm – Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary (Tan Quy hamlet, My Chanh Hoa Commune).

The three Gừa trees with the scientific name Ficus microcarpa L.f., are all over 100 years old, with the largest one being over 200 years old, linked to the formation and development of the Vàm Hồ forest. According to local residents, these Gừa trees have been present and thriving alongside the ecosystem here for many decades.

Attending the ceremony were Mr. Tran Ngoc Tam, former Chairman of the People's Committee of Ben Tre Province; Ms. Nguyen Thi Ngoc Dung, Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Vinh Long Province; leaders of My Chanh Hoa commune; along with officials from Hai Van Farm – Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary. Representing the VACNE, Mr. Le Chi Linh, Deputy Chairman of the Can Tho City Nature and Environment Conservation Association, was authorized to attend and present the Decision and Certificate recognizing the Vietnam Heritage Tree to the locality.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr. Le Chi Linh emphasized that the recognition and honoring of ancient trees like the Gừa tree is aimed at preserving valuable genetic resources, maintaining biodiversity, protecting typical environmental landscapes, and introducing the richness of Vietnam's plant system to international friends. This is also a direct way to promote and enhance the value of historical and cultural heritage sites, contributing to the development of ecological tourism and the local socio-economic growth.

Mr. Tran Phuong Binh, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of My Chanh Hoa Commune, said: "The three Gừa trees at Vam Ho Bird Sanctuary have existed for a very long time. Through actual surveys, based on trunk size, quantity and characteristics of lateral roots as well as leaf canopy circumference, one tree is determined to be over 200 years old, while the other two are over 100 years old. This is a source of pride for the government and the people of My Chanh Hoa Commune, and also a valuable resource to connect nature conservation efforts with sustainable ecological tourism development."

Ms. Doan Thi My Nhu – Director of Hai Van Ecotourism Company shared: the recognition of the 3 Gừa trees as Vietnam Heritage Trees not only enhances the value of Vam Ho tourism but also turns this place into a 'living museum' of nature and history. Visitors will be able to admire the magnificent beauty of the trees while learning about the stories and legends associated with them, contributing to the spread of the message about the preservation of nature and heritage.

Some images of the ceremony:
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The delegates attending the ceremony

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Mr. Le Chi Linh, representative of the VACNE, announced the Decision and presented the certificate recognizing the Vietnam Heritage Tree to the local community..

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