Three Generations of Trees Introduction
The famous “Three-Generation Tree” in Alishan is located along the forest trails of Alishan National Scenic Area. It refers to a unique spectacle formed by an ancient tree with three generations growing from the same root. The first generation, an old Taiwan cypress, died after growing for 1,500 years, lying horizontally on the ground. After 250 years, moss covered the trunk's surface, creating a moisture-retaining layer, and the open sky above allowed ample sunlight to nourish the seedlings of the second generation, which thrived using the decayed tree as nutrients. After another 300 years, the second-generation tree, after enduring a long cycle of growth and decay, gradually developed empty roots and sprouted new seedlings, which are what we see today as the third generation. This phenomenon, where grandparents, parents, and offspring grow together from the same ground, is not uncommon in Taiwan's Taiwan cypress forests. However, the towering third-generation Taiwan cypress in Alishan, now lush and interwoven, fortuitously forms a beautiful heart shape, making it a favorite location for couples to take photos (now affected by natural weathering and breaks) and an ideal backdrop for wedding photography. Additionally, the Three-Generation Tree is also one of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Alishan, with the trail from the Alishan Station leading to the Three-Generation Tree even nicknamed “Sakura Tree Trail.” Visitors to Alishan should take the time to admire and cherish the wonder of this ancient tree, and perhaps, hundreds or thousands of years from now, there will be shadows of a fourth, fifth, or sixth-generation tree emerging as well.
