Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) of Bangdong-ri, Gangneung in full bloom

연합뉴스 / 2022-07-13 05:42:25

▲ This photo, shows Mugunghwa, the oldest national flower in Korea, showing off its dignified spirit by blooming in full bloom despite the continuing heat these days in Bangdong-ri, Sacheon-myeon, Gangneung-si, Gangwon-do. (Yonhap)

SEOUL, July 13 (Yonhap) -- The country's oldest national flower, the Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) tree, has bloomed in full bloom despite the continuing heat these days.

The Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) of Bangdong-ri, Gangneung, is located in the residence of the Bangdong-ri, Sacheon-myeon, Gangneung inside the shrine of Master Su Ryang Park and has a circumference of 146 cm, making it the thickest of all surviving Mugunghwa trees in Korea.

It was designated as a natural monument in 2011 and is being protected.

With red or pink petals, Mugunghwa retains the original form of a pure native species with a reddish stamen in the center.

While Mugunghwa usually has a lifespan of 40-50 years, the Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) of Bangdong-ri, Gangneung, was estimated to be 110 years old when being designated as a natural monument in 2011. As much as it is the oldest native flower in South Korea, it is evaluated to have a very high value.

The Mugunghwa (Rose of Sharon) of Bangdong-ri, Gangneung, endured the turbulent modern history of Korea including the Korean War, as well as the dark years of the Japanese colonial era.

As it is old, the number of blooming flowers decreased sharply a few years ago due to the weakening of the water supply. However, with the citizens' care, the tree has begun to bloom again.

It has been attracting attention as the pink flowers began to bloom, showing off its elegant figure and spirit even in the heat wave.

The gates that were closed are now always open for the residents to see Mugunghwa up close at any time.

Particular, these days, this tree is in full bloom even when compared to other Mugunghwa trees at its peak, making it a spectacular sight.

The tree is also proud of its greenery and is showing off its health.

"It must be difficult to manage due to its old age, but seeing clean flowers blooming with no spider webs and no diseases and pests this year makes me feel better," a resident who came to see Mugunghwa said on Wednesday.