Two Long nao trees, scientifically known as Cinnamomum Camphora, at Bao Dai Palace in the Central Highlands province of Dak Lak officially received the Vietnam Heritage Tree title at a ceremony on December 17.

The two trees, 2.5m in diameter and nearly 30m in height, were recognised by the Vietnam Association for Conservation of Nature and Environment (VACNE) thanks to their historical values as they were planted in the 1930s at the palace of Bao Dai, the last king of Vietnam.

In 2011, the VACNE launched a programme to conserve Vietnam Heritage Trees, aiming to select and honour the country’s heritage trees in a bid to conserve their gene sources, while raising public awareness of protecting the environment.

It also contributes to promoting the diversification and abundance of Vietnam’s flora as well as developing scientific research in the field.

To win the honour, the trees must be at least 200 years old in the case of wild trees, and at least 100 years for those planted. Moreover, the trees should be connected with the historical and cultural characteristics of the area where they grow.

Those which do not meet the aforesaid criteria yet have special values in science, history or culture, will also earn recognition.

The number of recognised heritage trees is currently around 700.-VNA