In the heart of theRural Indiain the state of Andhra Pradesh, there is a tree so imposing as to seem An entire forest. It is the Thimmamma Marrimanua Ficus Benghalensis who has conquered a place in Guinness World Records as The largest tree in the world in extension. His hair covers more than 19 square kilometersan area so vast that by observing it it is difficult to distinguish where it ends.
This extraordinary green creature has beyond 650 years and is located about 25 kilometers from the town of Kadiri. The structure of the tree is surprising: it does not grow only upwards like traditional plants, but expands horizontallymaking it fall Aerial roots that are transformed into new secondary trunks. This allowed her to develop More than 1,000 wood columnscreating a real self -sufficient plant network.
A sacred and legendary symbol
Like many wonders of nature, Thimmamma Marrimanu is also surrounded by popular legends. According to local folklore, the tree would be born from one funeral pyre. Legend has it that a woman has sacrificed throwing herself on the flames on for her deceased husband, and by one of the poles Used in the rite the plant would have sprouted. This act of love would be the root of its strength and longevity.
In the Indian context, the trees of this type, called Banyanhave a deep spiritual value. Are considered sacred in the Hindu tradition, and often there are points of reference for local communitiessince they offer shadow, humidity And Erosion protection soil. In dry seasons, their wide hair helps to keep the ground underlying fresh.
A giant with an empty heart
Despite the monumental aspect and the ecological value, the Ficus Benghalensis also has characteristics technically unusual. In fact it is considered one partially parasitic speciessince its trunks tend to empty itself internally Over time. However, this does not compromise its stability, thanks to the branched structure that carries out.
In comparison, the Sequoia General Shermanin California, holds the record of volumebut his hair of 1,487 square meters does not approach the vastness of Thimmamma Marrimanu in the least, which is not only a living record, but also a Cultural and spiritual heritage of India.
