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Nestled in Thanh Sơn commune, Thanh Hà district, Hải Dương province, the Hải Dương silk tree proudly holds the record for the 'oldest longan tree in Vietnam.' This silk tree stands as a treasure, affirming the ancient roots of the renowned longan variety.
Witness the enduring Hải Dương silk tree, a symbol of longevity in Vietnam
The credit for planting the Hải Dương silk tree goes to Mr. Hoàng Văn Cơm (born in 1848), also known as Phúc Thành or Cụ Cơm locally. His efforts in bringing the silk variety back to the homeland earned him the title Cụ Cơm. The tale of the silk tree is etched in the memories of the locals, a source of pride whenever shared with visitors.
As per records, Cụ Cơm, formerly a fruit merchant trading from Hải Dương to Hải Phòng, tasted a delicious fabric during a wedding feast of overseas Chinese in Hải Phòng in 1870. Impressed, he brought back three seeds to cultivate in his garden in Thúy Lâm village.
Thanks to the favorable climate and soil conditions, all three seeds sprouted and thrived. Among them, only one silk tree bore exceptionally fragrant and delicious fruits. As the tree flourished and bore ripe fruits, Cụ Cơm invited everyone in the village to taste them, receiving unanimous praise from all.
As this fabric originates from Thiều Châu, China, it is named longan silk, reflecting its Chinese roots. Enchanted by its delightful aroma, Mr. Hoàng Văn Cơm propagated the silk tree in his home garden, sharing it with relatives and locals in the area.
In 1958, the officials and residents of Thúy Lâm village carefully selected the finest longan fruits to present to Uncle Hồ. By 1960, inspired by Uncle Hồ's initiative in cooperative gardening and tree planting festivals, Thúy Lâm silk was actively cultivated in various regions within the province and neighboring areas.
Despite existing for many years, the Hải Dương silk tree shows no signs of decline, remaining lush and vibrant every harvest season. People diligently preserve and care for the tree, making it an enticing destination that sparks curiosity among local and international tourists.
Around May to June each year, the Hải Dương silk tree begins bearing ripe fruits. It yields abundantly, with each fruit weighing several kilograms. The tree's fruits have a redder skin compared to others, with small yet thick, juicy pulp that offers a crisp, sweet flavor.
This period attracts numerous tourists who come to admire, explore, and savor the longan fruits from the Hải Dương silk tree. The silk tree is a treasure, a source of pride for generations of Thanh Hà locals and the travelers who have visited this enchanting place.
According to Mytour
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Reference: Mytour Travel Guide
MytourFebruary 2, 2023
