“Iron tree.” That’s what they call the Parrotia persica. It is one of the Real Jardín Botánico’s most beautiful trees. We are standing before a remarkable tree. It stands proudly in Madrid’s Real Jardín Botánico. This Parrotia is no ordinary tree. It is a designated singular tree of the Madrid Community. The Parrotia graces the Glorieta de Los Tilos.
This Parrotia’s beauty extends beyond its appearance. Its presence enhances the Paisaje de la Luz. This landscape is a recognized World Heritage site since 2021. This Parrotia in the Real Jardín Botánico is special.
Let’s delve into the details of this specific tree. It belongs to the Hamamelidaceae family. Specifically it is from the order of hamamelidades. It is a dicotyledoneae. This Parrotia reaches a height of 13 meters. Its crown spans 12.5 meters. The trunk measures 0.95 meters in circumference. It grows at an altitude of 635 meters above sea level.
Experts estimate this Parrotia to be about 100 years old. It stands as a testament to time. Its inclusion in the catalog of singular trees underscores its importance. It is identified as number 104.
The iron tree is native to Iran. It is known for its resilience and ornamental beauty. The tree can grow up to 15 meters tall. It can also be 8-15 meters wide. Its trunk can reach 80 cm in diameter. The crown has a broadly conical shape. The bark is gray-pink or gray-brown.
Its leaves are ovoid in shape. They measure between 6 and 12 cm long. Autumn transforms the Parrotia. The leaves turn vibrant shades of red. They also change to orange and yellow. This display makes it particularly attractive in autumn.
Antonello Dellanotte captured the Parrotia’s beauty in a photograph. The photo was taken on October 27, 2020. It immortalizes the tree’s autumn splendor.
Within the Real Jardín Botánico, the Parrotia stands among diverse flora. The garden hosts over 30,000 plants. They represent Europe, America, and the Pacific. Plants from all continents are present. The garden also maintains a herbarium. It contains over 750,000 specimens.
The Real Jardín Botánico itself has a rich history. King Fernando VI founded it in 1755. Initially, it was located in Soto de Migas Calientes. Later, Carlos III ordered its relocation in 1781. It moved to its current location on Plaza de Murillo. The garden is next to the Paseo del Prado. It is near the Museo del Prado.
The Real Jardín Botánico is a research center. It operates under the Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas. Its herbarium is a vital resource. It aids studies related to plant diversity. The herbarium is the most important collection in Spain. It is one of Europe’s most representative.
As you leave the Parrotia del Real Jardín Botánico, remember its resilience. Remember also its beauty. It stands as a natural monument. It also is a testament to Madrid’s dedication to preserving natural treasures. The Parrotia offers a moment of reflection. Appreciate the enduring beauty of nature.