Bodhi Tree

Common name Bodhi Tree of Bodh Gaya

Botanical Name Ficus religiosa

Family Moraceae

Natural range India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka

Mature height up to 30m

Form Canopy tree with a wide spreading crown

Likes Full sun and well-drained soil

Dislikes Waterlogging, frost, and dry soil

Where to plant Sacred sites, parks, and gardens

What is the Bodhi Tree of Bodh Gaya?

The Bodhi Tree of Bodh Gaya, also known as the Sacred Fig, is a remarkable and ancient tree of great cultural and religious significance. It is believed to be the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment more than 2,500 years ago. Scientifically known as Ficus religiosa and a member of the Moraceae family, the Bodhi Tree is an iconic symbol of Buddhism and an important part of India’s cultural heritage.

A tree with a unique life cycle

The Bodhi Tree is a deciduous, canopy tree with a wide spreading crown. It can grow up to 30m in height and 3m in girth, and can live for several centuries. The tree produces a fruit known as figs, which are eaten by birds and mammals. The seeds of the figs are dispersed in their droppings, and can grow into new trees, creating a unique life cycle.

A tree of historical significance

The Bodhi Tree of Bodh Gaya is one of the most important trees in the world. It is said to be the same tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, making it an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists. The tree is located in Bodh Gaya, a small town in the state of Bihar, India, and is surrounded by the Mahabodhi Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The tree has been carefully preserved and protected for more than two millennia, and is an essential part of Buddhist history and culture.

A tree of scientific interest

Apart from its cultural and religious significance, the Bodhi Tree is also an important species from a scientific standpoint. It is known for its ecological adaptability, ability to withstand a wide range of climatic conditions, and its contribution to biodiversity conservation. The tree has been studied extensively by botanists and biologists, who have found it to be an essential component of several ecosystems in India and Southeast Asia.

Caring for your Bodhi Tree

Caring for a Bodhi Tree requires specific conditions. It needs full sun and well-drained soil, and should be watered regularly during the growing season. The tree does not tolerate waterlogging, frost, or dry soil, so it is best suited to tropical and subtropical climates. It is also susceptible to pests and diseases, so regular care and monitoring is required to keep it healthy.

The Bodhi Tree of Bodh Gaya is a remarkable and ancient tree of great cultural and religious significance. It is a symbol of Buddhism and an important part of India’s cultural heritage. Apart from its religious importance, the tree is also a fascinating species from a scientific standpoint, and is an essential component of several ecosystems in India and Southeast Asia. By taking care of this sacred tree, we are not only preserving our cultural and religious heritage, but also contributing to the conservation of biodiversity.

Links for further reading:

UNESCO World Heritage Centre: Mahabodhi Temple Complex at Bodh Gaya
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN): Ficus religiosa
The Bodhi Tree: A Journey of Discovery and Inspiration by Rachel Joyce