Ancient China was home to a variety of trees, some of which held deep significance in its mythology and culture. These trees ranged from those rooted in reality to others existing primarily in legend.
According to references concerning trees in Chinese mythology and culture, the following trees were notable:
- Fusang tree
- Peaches of Immortality
- Pine
- Cypress
- Plum and other types of Prunus
- Jujube
- Cassia
- Certain others
Trees of Significance in Ancient China
The trees important in ancient Chinese beliefs and daily life can be broadly categorized into those with mythological prominence and those that were well-known and attributed mythological significance.
Mythological and Legendary Trees
Some trees were central figures in myths and legends:
- The Fusang tree: Often described as a gigantic mythological tree, it was associated with the sun or the suns.
- The Peaches of Immortality: Cultivated by the goddess Xi Wangmu (the Queen Mother of the West), these peaches were said to grant immortality to those who ate them. The tree itself is tied directly to the divine realm.
Well-Known Trees with Cultural Attributions
Many trees common in the landscape were woven into the fabric of mythology, poetry, and cultural practices:
- Pine: Known for its evergreen nature, the pine symbolizes longevity and resilience, particularly thriving in harsh conditions.
- Cypress: Like the pine, the cypress is an evergreen often associated with longevity, steadfastness, and is frequently found in cemeteries, symbolizing eternal life or remembrance.
- Plum and other Prunus varieties: The plum tree, particularly the mei (Chinese plum), is a highly esteemed symbol of resilience, purity, and hope, often blooming beautifully in late winter or early spring.
- Jujube: This fruit-bearing tree (Chinese date) was a source of food and medicine and held cultural significance related to fertility and prosperity.
- Cassia: The cassia tree (often associated with cinnamon or sweet osmanthus) is linked to the moon in folklore and was valued for its fragrance and medicinal properties.
These trees, whether purely legendary or real species imbued with symbolic meaning, played important roles in the cultural, spiritual, and practical life of people in ancient China.
