Three-Generation Wood Introduction
The famous Three-Generations Tree in Alishan is located along the forest trails of the Alishan National Scenic Area. It refers to the unique sight created by an ancient tree that has spawned three generations from the same root. The first generation, an ancient red cypress, died after living for 1,500 years, and its trunk now lies flat on the ground. After 250 years, moss covered the surface of the trunk, creating a moisture-retaining layer. The fallen trunk exposed the sky above, providing ample sunlight that allowed the seedlings of the second generation to thrive on it, using the decaying tree for nourishment and growing strong. After another 300 years, the second-generation tree underwent a long process of decline and rebirth, eventually sprouting new shoots, resulting in what we see today as the third-generation tree. This phenomenon of multiple generations co-existing in one place is not uncommon among red cypress forests across Taiwan. However, this third-generation giant red cypress in Alishan, standing more than ten feet tall with its lush branches and intricate roots, fortuitously forms a beautiful heart shape, making it a favorite photo spot for couples in Taiwan (though it has since been naturally weathered and fractured), and also an ideal backdrop for wedding photos. Additionally, the Three-Generations Tree is one of the most popular cherry blossom viewing spots in Alishan, with the trail from the Alishan Work Station to the tree even nicknamed "Sakura Tree Flower Path." Visitors to Alishan should take the opportunity to appreciate this extraordinary old tree; perhaps in hundreds or thousands of years, there will be fourth, fifth, or sixth-generation trees casting their majestic shadows.
