In the heart of the Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Botanical Garden near Kolkata (Calcutta), India, stands a remarkable natural wonder known as the Great Banyan Tree. This ancient tree, over 250 years old, covers an astounding 4.67 acres of land, making it the widest tree in the world. It is 80 feet tall. The tree’s botanical name is Ficus benghalensis, and it is native to India.
From a distance, the Great Banyan Tree appears as an entire forest, a visual illusion created by its 3,600 aerial roots. These roots descend from the branches, anchoring themselves into the ground and giving rise to the appearance of multiple individual trees. This unique characteristic is what makes the Great Banyan Tree so extraordinary.
In the 19th century, two devastating cyclones caused significant damage to the tree, leading to a fungal attack that necessitated the removal of its main trunk, which was 15.7 meters wide (51 feet). Despite this loss, the tree has continued to thrive. The clonal colony of the tree remains healthy, supported by its vast network of aerial roots.
To accommodate visitors and offer a full view of this magnificent tree, a 330-meter-long road was constructed around its circumference. However, the Great Banyan Tree has continued to grow, now spreading over 450 meters in circumference, showcasing its relentless expansion year after year.
The Great Banyan Tree is not alone in its grandeur. India is home to several other large banyan trees, each with its own unique story and significance. These include the Old Banyan in Anantapur district of Andhra Pradesh, the Gigantic Banyan Tree in Ranthambore National Park, and the Big Banyan in Bangalore.
The Great Banyan Tree stands as a testament to nature’s resilience and grandeur, offering a serene and awe-inspiring experience to all who visit. It is not just a tree but a living legacy, embodying the rich biodiversity and natural beauty of India.