Workers with the Forestry Bureau of Fenghuang County found the tree, 50 meters high and with a crown 28 meters in diameter, during a general investigation of forest resources in the county mid-June.

Located in Dushou Village of Chatian Town, the old maidenhair tree remains in good shape with its thick leaves creating vast areas of shade for local people.

Teng Jianyu, an official of the bureau, said local people respected and revered the maidenhair tree, which explained its survival for over the centuries.

Scientists believe the maidenhair species dates back to the Mesozoic Age, calling it a living fossil.

(Xinhua News Agency June 20, 2003)