Frangipani Forest Introduction
The GiBei Cotton Tree Forest is located within the Pinghe Branch of Wutan Elementary School in the Bioma Tribe of Pinghe Village, Taiwu Township. This area of trees was first introduced during the Japanese colonial era for military purposes. Over the course of several decades, the cotton trees have flourished, forming a green wall around the Pinghe campus, showcasing a rare ecological forest of GiBei cotton trees in Taiwan. The GiBei cotton tree is a deciduous hardwood tree, characterized by its tall and straight stature, reaching heights of about 30 meters. The older the tree, the thicker its buttress roots become. Initially, green thorns appear on the surface of young trees, but as they age, these thorns gradually fall off, resulting in a smoother trunk for the older trees. Due to the fast growth rate of the GiBei cotton trees and the beauty of their blossoms, they are often used as ornamental trees. Summer is the season when the cotton tree forest showcases its vitality and charm. At this time, the branches grow robust, and the leaves turn a deep green. As the trees blossom, mature fruits burst open, releasing fluffy white cotton fibers into the air. On hot summer days, visiting this towering GiBei cotton tree forest feels like stepping into a dream, with cotton fibers fluttering like white flower rain, creating an unforgettable and enchanting scene. The GiBei cotton tree forest beautifully protects this campus while providing children with opportunities to explore nature. In this forest area, there is an outdoor classroom, which, though lacking traditional desks, features many adorable little wooden chairs made from discarded wooden planks, characterized by their simple and playful design. Here, classes are not just leisurely without boredom; students are accompanied by birds, small insects, gentle breezes, and the warm sun, making for an enviable learning environment!
