Firmiana simplex (Atomic-bombed Phoenix Trees) (F-205, F-206)

Botanical Name

Firmiana simplex 
(Atomic-bombed Phoenix Trees)

Tree Donor

Chugoku Regional Postal Services Bureau

Date Donated

May 1973

Reason for Donation

This Chinese parasol tree is an atomic-bombed tree. At the time of the bombing, it was located approximately 1.3 km from the hypocenter in the garden of the Hiroshima Telecommunications Bureau in Higashi-Hakushima-cho, Naka-ku (currently the Chugoku Branch of the Japan Post). As there was nothing to shield the tree from the blast, it bore the brunt of the heat rays and blast wind, losing all of its branches and leaves, and half of its trunk (the half facing the hypocenter) was burned out. However, the next spring, new buds sprouted on the all but lifeless tree, giving hope to the people of Hiroshima who had their spirits broken in the chaos of the bombing and Japan’s surrender of the war.

With the rebuilding of the Chugoku Branch of the Japan Post in May 1973, the tree was moved to its current location where it stands as a silent testimony to the destruction of the atomic bomb. While it was feared that relocating the tree would kill it, the Chinese parasol tree continues to bear seeds each year. From these seeds, saplings named the Second Generation Atomic Bombed Chinese Parasol are raised and given to visitors such as schools which visit Peace Memorial Park on educational field trips.

Location

Recent Photograph

Explanatory Plaque

Inquiries regarding this page

Flowers and Greenery Policy Section, Landscape Division, Greenery Promotion Division, Urban Development Bureau
1-6-34 Kokutaiji-machi, Naka-ku, Hiroshima
Tel: 082-504-2396 // Fax: 082-504-2391
Email: park@city.hiroshima.lg.jp